U.S. Measles Cases Surge to Highest Level in Over 30 Years

Dec 31, 2025, 2:51 AM

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that the United States is experiencing its highest number of measles cases in over three decades, with 1,288 confirmed cases across 38 states as of mid-2025. This marks a significant increase from the 285 cases recorded in the previous year, highlighting a troubling trend in public health.

The last time the US saw such high numbers was in 1992, prior to the disease being declared eliminated in 2000 due to effective vaccination programs. Experts are alarmed by the resurgence, noting that measles is one of the most contagious diseases known to humans. Dr Caitlin Rivers from Johns Hopkins University emphasized the preventability of measles, stating, "We really hate to see this resurgence of a preventable virus.".

Major Outbreaks and Hospitalizations

The largest outbreak has been reported in Texas, which has accounted for 753 of the total cases. The outbreak began in January and, at its peak, was seeing 15 to 20 new cases daily. Although the rate of new cases has slowed, the overall trend indicates that the US is experiencing more cases weekly than in previous years.

As of now, over 150 individuals have been hospitalized due to measles, and three deaths have been reported, including two unvaccinated children in Texas. The CDC has noted that 92% of the confirmed cases are among individuals who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown.

Declining Vaccination Rates

The resurgence of measles is closely linked to declining vaccination rates across the country. Kindergarten vaccination rates have dropped from 95% during the 2019-2020 school year to less than 93% in 2023-2024. Dr Adam Ratner, a pediatric infectious disease physician, warned that the US is in danger of losing its measles elimination status if vaccination rates do not improve.

The CDC recommends that children receive two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, with the first dose administered between 12 to 15 months of age and the second between 4 to 6 years. One dose of the vaccine is 93% effective, while two doses increase effectiveness to 97%.

Public Health Implications

The current situation serves as a warning sign for public health officials. Dr Peter Hotez, a professor of pediatrics, expressed concern that the US could see a return of other childhood illnesses if vaccination rates continue to decline. He noted that measles outbreaks often precede the resurgence of other vaccine-preventable diseases, such as whooping cough.

The CDC continues to support community vaccination efforts and provides technical assistance and vaccines to areas experiencing outbreaks. However, the decision to vaccinate remains a personal choice, which complicates efforts to achieve herd immunity.

Conclusion

The rise in measles cases in the US is a significant public health concern, reflecting broader issues related to vaccination hesitancy and declining immunization rates. As health officials work to combat this trend, the importance of vaccination as a preventive measure against measles and other infectious diseases cannot be overstated. The situation underscores the need for renewed public health campaigns to educate communities about the benefits of vaccination and the risks associated with preventable diseases.

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