What's happened
In 2025, the U.S. faces a resurgence of measles, with over 100 cases reported this year, including a fatality in Texas. Health officials attribute the outbreaks to declining vaccination rates, particularly among unvaccinated children. Experts emphasize the importance of vaccination to prevent further spread.
What's behind the headline?
Current Situation
- Over 100 measles cases reported in 2025, compared to 285 in all of 2024.
- The recent death of an unvaccinated child in Texas highlights the severity of the outbreaks.
Vaccination Rates
- Vaccination rates have declined, with many cases occurring among unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status.
- Health officials stress that vaccines are highly effective, with breakthrough cases being rare.
Public Health Implications
- The resurgence of measles poses significant risks, especially to young children and immunocompromised individuals.
- Experts recommend reviewing vaccination status and ensuring proper protection against measles.
Future Outlook
- Continued public health campaigns are essential to combat misinformation and encourage vaccination.
- The situation underscores the need for vigilance in maintaining high vaccination rates to prevent further outbreaks.
What the papers say
According to the New York Times, 'There have been more than 100 measles cases in the United States so far this year,' indicating a worrying trend as vaccination rates decline. The article also notes that 'most of the measles cases in recent outbreaks have been among people who were unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown.' In contrast, Business Insider UK highlights the historical context, stating that 'endemic measles was eliminated in the US by the year 2000,' but recent outbreaks are attributed to 'anti-vaccine misinformation.' This juxtaposition illustrates the ongoing public health challenge posed by vaccine skepticism and its consequences on community health.
How we got here
Measles was eliminated in the U.S. by 2000 due to widespread vaccination. However, recent years have seen a rise in cases linked to vaccine skepticism and declining immunization rates, leading to outbreaks primarily among unvaccinated populations.
Go deeper
- What are the symptoms of measles?
- How can I check my vaccination status?
- What should parents know about measles vaccination?
Common question
-
What Caused the Measles Outbreak in Texas?
The recent measles outbreak in Texas has raised significant public health concerns, particularly as it marks the first measles-related death in the U.S. since 2015. With over 164 cases reported, primarily among unvaccinated children, understanding the causes and implications of this outbreak is crucial. Below, we address common questions surrounding this alarming situation.
-
Do You Need a Measles Booster Vaccine?
With recent measles outbreaks in the U.S., many are questioning the necessity of booster vaccinations. Understanding the importance of measles vaccination can help protect not only yourself but also your community. Here are some common questions regarding measles vaccination and what you need to know.
-
What is the history of measles outbreaks and vaccination in the U.S.?
Measles outbreaks have resurfaced in the U.S., raising alarms about vaccination rates and public health. Understanding the history of these outbreaks and the effectiveness of the measles vaccine is crucial for preventing future cases. Below, we explore key questions surrounding measles, its vaccination, and the lessons learned from past outbreaks.
More on these topics
-
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.
-
Measles (probably from Middle Dutch or Middle High German masel(e) ("blemish, blood blister")) is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable infectious disease caused by measles virus. Other names include morbilli, rubeola, red measles, and English measles
-
New Mexico is a state in the Southwestern region of the United States of America; its capital is Santa Fe, which was founded in 1610 as capital of Nuevo México, while its largest city is Albuquerque with its accompanying metropolitan area.
-
Texas is a state in the South Central Region of the United States. It is the second largest U.S. state by both area and population.
