Measles Makes a Comeback: What's Going On?
The U.S. is grappling with a severe measles crisis, with over 2,000 cases reported in 2025—the highest number in decades. The last time cases were this high was in 1992, a time when children did not receive the two-dose MMR vaccine regimen that is standard today.
Measles: Highly Contagious, Vaccines Critical
Measles is extremely contagious, but vaccines are highly effective in controlling outbreaks:
- One dose of the MMR vaccine is 93% effective.
- Two doses boost effectiveness to 97%.
Despite this, vaccination rates are declining. In the 2024–25 school year, only 92.5% of kindergarteners received the MMR vaccine. Experts warn that 95% vaccination coverage is necessary to prevent outbreaks.
Major Outbreaks Across the U.S.
- West Texas & New Mexico:
- A major outbreak spread from West Texas to New Mexico.
- Hundreds of cases and three deaths were reported.
All fatalities were among unvaccinated individuals.
- South Carolina:
- An outbreak began in October 2024 with nearly 180 cases.
The virus spread in homes, schools, and churches, forcing many into quarantine.
- Utah-Arizona Border:
- Over 350 cases have been reported across the border region.
- Health officials fear continued spread.
Global Impact: Canada Loses Measles-Free Status
Canada recently lost its measles-free status due to a large outbreak. U.S. officials are closely monitoring the situation, fearing the U.S. could also lose its measles elimination status if cases continue to rise.
