A growing number of Central Texas health departments are warning residents of possible exposure to measles, the latest sign that the outbreak in West Texas is spreading across the state. Why it matters: Measles is a highly contagious and potentially life-threatening disease that has surged in areas with high vaccination exemption rates.

The Texas measles outbreak is up to 124 cases in 9 counties, according to the latest numbers by the Texas Department of State and Health Services.