A Texas lawmaker says he's not concerned about the measles outbreak because of antibiotics

A lawmaker from the state of Texas hinted that he was not worried about the recent measles outbreak across the country because antibiotics could treat the virus.

Texas State Representative Bill Zedler (right) made the comments on Tuesday at the Texas Observer and said he had a case of measles before a vaccine was developed.

"They mean people are dying of measles," he told the Observer. "Yes, in third world countries, they are dying of measles, and today, with antibiotics and these kinds of products, they are not dying in America."

Since its inception, measles vaccines have been largely effective. The CDC estimates that only about 2% to 5% of children who get the vaccine in the first 12 months get measles.

Antibiotics used to treat infections are not effective against viruses.

The measles epidemics of recent months have drawn the country's attention and dozens of cases have been reported in Washington.

The growing anti-vaccine movement finding a place in several social media circles is becoming one of the reasons for the rise in measles outbreaks.

Eight measles cases have been reported in Texas this year, according to State Department Health Services.

The Texas legislature is currently considering a bill that would give parents easier access to vaccine exemptions for their children in schools. Zedler would be in favor of the bill.