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Measles outbreaks are easily triggered by even small drops in vaccination rates, requiring 95% vaccination for herd immunity. Simulations using the FRED modeling system show that in Lubbock, Texas, near a current measles outbreak, a single measles case could cause a large outbreak at lower vaccination rates (85% or 75%). At 95% vaccination, only a few cases occur. The high threshold for herd immunity highlights the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to prevent widespread outbreaks.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.