The United States is seeing a troubling increase in measles cases in 2025, already surpassing last year’s total by a wide margin. Although the U.S. declared measles eliminated in 2000, the virus has reemerged—especially in Texas—raising serious public health concerns.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most of the current outbreaks stem from unvaccinated travelers who contract the virus abroad and unintentionally spread it to others upon returning home. While measles infection is still possible in vaccinated individuals, such cases are extremely rare.
Vaccination Still the Best Defense
Health officials stress the importance of the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine. Children should receive their first dose between 12 and 15 months, followed by a second dose between ages four and six. This two-dose regimen offers strong protection against the virus.
Recent Deaths After a Decade Without Fatalities
Tragically, the U.S. reported its first measles-related death in a decade when an unvaccinated child in Texas died in March. A second child in the same state passed away in early April. A third possible measles-related death in New Mexico is under investigation.
What Is Measles?
Measles is a highly infectious disease spread through coughing and sneezing. Symptoms include a distinct red rash, fever, runny nose, cough, and irritated eyes. In young children, the virus can lead to serious complications such as ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, or encephalitis (brain inflammation).
Where Are the Outbreaks Happening?
As of April 10, 2025, the CDC has confirmed 712 measles cases across 25 U.S. jurisdictions. States affected include:
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Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky
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Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York (City and State), Ohio, Oklahoma
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Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Washington
Who Is Getting Sick?
Among the 712 cases, 97% involved people who were either unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status. Only 1% had received one MMR dose, and 2% were fully vaccinated.
Of those infected, 79 people were hospitalized. Nearly 60% of hospitalizations involved children under five, with others being school-aged children and adults.
Comparison With 2024
This year’s measles numbers are alarming compared to 2024, when 285 cases were reported in total. That’s a 2.5-fold increase in just the first four months of 2025. While no deaths were recorded last year, this year has already seen two confirmed fatalities and a third under review.
What to Do If You Suspect Measles
If you think you might have measles—or if you’ve been exposed—seek medical attention immediately. The CDC advises self-isolating for at least four days after the rash appears, as this is when the virus is most contagious.