HOUSTON — Pathologists raised concerns about Houston's vulnerability to the current measles outbreak spreading across West Texas during a virtual media briefing held by the College of American Pathologists on Thursday.

Half of the newly reported cases are in Gaines County, about 80 miles southwest of Lubbock, which has been the epicenter of the outbreak. The Texas Department of State Health Services has confirmed 259 cases of measles since late January.

" West Texas measles cases rise to 259. Here is what you need to know. " was first published by The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media organization that informs Texans — and engages with them — about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues.