Health department staff members enter the Andrews County Health Department measles clinic carrying doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, Tuesday, April 8, 2025, in Texas. (AP Photo)
Measles is making a dangerous comeback across the U.S., with nearly 900 cases reported so far in 2025. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed 884 infections as of Friday — three times the total seen in all of 2024.
Texas at the Epicenter
Texas is facing the worst of the outbreak, accounting for 663 confirmed cases across 26 counties. Most are concentrated in West Texas, particularly Gaines County, where a tight-knit Mennonite community has reported 396 cases. Two unvaccinated children have died from complications, including one as recently as April 3. In total, 87 people in Texas have been hospitalized.
New Mexico Reports a Death and Rising Cases
New Mexico has recorded 66 measles cases, with most in Lea County. One adult has died, and seven others have been hospitalized. Officials confirm the outbreak is genetically linked to the spread in Texas.
Outbreaks of Measles Reported in Several U.S. States
Other states with active outbreaks (defined as three or more cases) include:
- Indiana: Eight cases in Allen County, mostly unvaccinated children.
- Kansas: 37 cases spread across eight counties, with the first case linked to Texas.
- Michigan: Nine total cases, including four connected to Ontario, Canada.
- Montana: First measles cases in 35 years reported, with five unvaccinated individuals infected.
- Ohio: 32 cases across four counties, with 20 of those in Knox County alone.
- Oklahoma: 12 confirmed and three probable cases; some tied to the West Texas outbreak.
- Pennsylvania: 13 total cases; Erie County has declared an outbreak.
- Tennessee: Six cases so far, some linked to each other but no connection confirmed to other outbreaks.
International Links: Canada and Mexico Also Affected
Canada’s Ontario province has reported 1,020 cases since October. Meanwhile, Mexico’s Chihuahua state has 761 cases and one reported death. The World Health Organization links Mexico’s outbreak to Texas.
How Measles Spreads
Measles is a highly contagious virus and it spread through the air by coughing, sneezing, or breathing. Though it was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, but declining vaccination rates have fueled its resurgence.
Vaccination Is the Best Protection to Heal the U.S. from Measles
The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is safe and effective. Children should receive the first dose at 12–15 months and a second dose at 4–6 years. Adults unsure of their vaccination history are urged to consult healthcare providers. Communities with high vaccination coverage — above 95% — benefit from herd immunity, which helps prevent outbreaks.
Declining Vaccination Rates Raise Alarm
Childhood vaccination rates have dropped post-pandemic. More parents are opting out due to personal or religious beliefs. This shift has increased vulnerability to outbreaks nationwide.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Measles symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a spreading rash. The rash usually starts on the face and moves downward. In severe cases, measles can cause pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death.
Treatment Focuses on Comfort and Prevention
There is no cure for measles. Doctors focus on easing symptoms and preventing complications. Early diagnosis and supportive care are crucial, especially for children and those with weakened immunity.
