The United States is dealing with its worst measles outbreak in over three decades, as 1,288 cases have been confirmed so far in 2025. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says this is the highest number of infections since 1992, when the country saw over 2,100 cases. It even surpasses the previous record set in 2019.
Leading the current surge is Texas, where an outbreak has claimed the lives of two children and pushed the state’s case count past 750. The Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed both children were unvaccinated and had no underlying health issues. A third death tied to the outbreak was reported in New Mexico, involving an adult patient.
“Measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases,” the CDC said. The virus spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or even breathes. It can linger in a room for up to two hours.
Early symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. A distinctive rash typically follows. While many recover, 1 in 5 unvaccinated individuals may require hospitalization. For children, the risk is even more severe — brain swelling, permanent damage, or death can occur.
Despite measles being declared eliminated in the U.S. back in 2000, vaccination rates have fallen below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity. In fact, MMR vaccination coverage dropped to 91.26% nationally during the 2023–2024 school year.
“There is no antiviral drug or treatment that can cure measles,” the CDC emphasized. While no cure exists, supportive care can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
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