Measles cases in the U.S. surge to the highest level in 33 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Measles cases in the U.S. surge to the highest level in 33 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The United States is currently experiencing a significant increase in measles cases, marking the highest number since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000. As of July 8, 2025, there have been 1,288 confirmed measles cases across 39 states, with 27 outbreaks this year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The outbreak has primarily affected unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status, with 92% of cases falling into these categories. The resurgence of measles has been particularly pronounced in Texas, spreading to nearby states such as New Mexico and Kansas. It has disproportionately affected religious communities with longstanding vaccine skepticism, where vaccine refusal or delay is more common.

The decline in vaccination rates, fueled by vaccine hesitancy and misinformation, has played a significant role in the outbreak. According to CDC data, about 280,000 U.S. kindergarteners, or 7.3%, are not fully vaccinated with the two-dose measles vaccine. This marks a drop from 95% during the 2019-2020 school year to less than 93% during the 2023-2024 school year.

The worsening measles outbreak in the U.S. is mainly driven by low vaccination coverage in certain communities, vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation, and tight-knit groups where the virus can spread rapidly. These factors have led to the largest measles outbreak in decades, challenging public health efforts and highlighting the need for renewed vaccination campaigns and education.

The CDC currently recommends two doses of the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine, with the first at 12 to 15 months and the second between 4 and 6 years old. One dose of the MMR vaccine is 93% effective, and two doses are 97% effective, according to the CDC.

The resurgence of measles has led to significant hospitalizations, with 162 people hospitalized so far in 2025, including children. The outbreak has put the U.S. at risk of losing its measles elimination status due to the increasing number of cases and outbreaks. If sustained measles transmission continues for more than 12 months, the U.S. may lose its measles elimination status, according to Dr. Peter Hotez, dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine.

In summary, the worsening measles outbreak in the U.S. underscores the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates and addressing vaccine hesitancy. Public health efforts should focus on educating communities about the benefits of vaccination and the risks associated with vaccine-preventable diseases like measles. By doing so, we can work towards eliminating measles once again and ensuring the health and safety of all Americans.

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