What's happened
As of May 2025, the U.S. has reported 1,001 measles cases across 31 states, a significant increase from 285 cases in 2024. The outbreaks are primarily among unvaccinated individuals, with three fatalities reported. Experts emphasize the importance of vaccination to prevent further spread.
What's behind the headline?
Key Factors Behind the Surge
- Vaccination Rates: The decline in vaccination rates among kindergarteners, from 95.2% in 2019-2020 to 92.7% in 2023-2024, has contributed to the outbreak.
- Contagious Nature of Measles: Measles is highly contagious, with the CDC noting that 9 out of 10 unvaccinated individuals exposed will contract the disease.
- Public Health Messaging: The role of misinformation and vaccine hesitancy, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to decreased confidence in vaccines.
Implications
- Public Health Response: Health officials are urging communities to ensure vaccination compliance to restore herd immunity.
- Future Outlook: Without increased vaccination efforts, the U.S. may continue to see outbreaks, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children under five and those with weakened immune systems.
What the papers say
According to the New York Post, the CDC reported a total of 1,001 measles cases in 2025, with 93% linked to outbreaks. The Independent highlights that three deaths occurred among unvaccinated individuals, emphasizing the risks associated with low vaccination rates. Dr. Tyler Evans, former chief medical officer in NYC, stresses the need for individuals to verify their vaccination status to combat the spread. The New York Times notes that vaccine hesitancy has risen, contributing to the current health crisis. This multifaceted issue underscores the urgent need for public health initiatives to restore confidence in vaccinations and prevent further outbreaks.
How we got here
Measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, but vaccination rates have declined, leading to a resurgence of cases. The CDC reports that 96% of current cases are among unvaccinated individuals, highlighting the impact of vaccine hesitancy.
Go deeper
- What are the symptoms of measles?
- How can I ensure my child is vaccinated?
- What are health officials doing to address this outbreak?
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is a national public health institute in the United States. It is a United States federal agency, under the Department of Health and Human Services, and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.
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