Record-breaking increase in measles cases since the disease's elimination in the U.S.

Record-breaking increase in measles cases since the disease's elimination in the U.S.

In the year 2025, the United States has witnessed a significant increase in measles cases, surpassing the record set in 2019 with over 1,277 confirmed cases. This resurgence can be primarily attributed to declining vaccination rates and vaccine hesitancy.

Historically high vaccination coverage had previously halted endemic measles transmission for over two decades. However, recent years have seen a drop in immunization levels among children, particularly school-age kids. National measles vaccination rates among this group have fallen from about 95% in 2019 to 92% in 2023. In some areas, such as parts of Texas, kindergarten vaccination rates have even fallen below 95%, with some communities showing rates as low as 82%.

This reduction in vaccination coverage has left many people vulnerable to measles infection. The majority of the 2025 measles cases—about 95%—occurred in individuals who were unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown. Only a small fraction (about 3%) of cases involved people known to be fully vaccinated.

The largest outbreak in 2025 started in West Texas and has led to over 750 confirmed cases. Hospitalizations and at least a few deaths among unvaccinated children have been reported, marking a tragic resurgence of a disease once nearly eliminated. The rise in cases has effectively ended the United States' measles elimination status, which had been maintained for over 20 years due to high vaccination coverage.

The impact of this resurgence has been significant in terms of public health status. The increase in cases and outbreaks has threatened community immunity and public health gains. In response, expanded vaccination guidance has been introduced in many affected counties, allowing infants to get their first shot as early as 6 months old.

The CDC has advised that anyone traveling internationally should be vaccinated with two doses of the MMR vaccine. Mexico has issued a warning for people traveling to the US and Canada due to high measles case rates, and there have been outbreaks in Ontario, Canada, and Chihuahua, Mexico, which have led to cases among residents of Colorado and Michigan.

Preventive measures emphasized by public health officials include achieving and maintaining 95% vaccination coverage to protect communities and prevent outbreaks. This underlines the importance of vaccination campaigns and public health efforts to combat misinformation and restore high immunization coverage to protect against measles.

Dr. Bruce A. Scott, president of the American Medical Association, stated that the dismissal of vaccine advisers will further fuel the spread of vaccine-preventable illnesses. The CDC still does not have a director, and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has a long and complicated history with measles vaccines.

In conclusion, the 2025 measles outbreak in the US serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination in maintaining public health. The resurgence of measles underscores the need for continued efforts to combat misinformation, promote vaccination, and ensure high immunization coverage to protect communities from outbreaks.

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