• The US has reported over 1,000 measles cases in 2025, the second-highest number since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000.
• A major outbreak centered in West Texas accounts for over 800 cases and has spread to neighboring states.
• Low vaccination rates are contributing to the outbreak, with only 4% of cases occurring in individuals who received at least one MMR vaccine dose.

The United States is grappling with a resurgence of measles, with reported cases exceeding 1,000 in 2025. This is a significant increase since the disease's elimination in 2000, raising public health concerns. A large outbreak originating in West Texas has been the primary driver, spreading to other states. Low vaccination rates and unreported cases are exacerbating the situation, potentially making 2025 the worst year for measles since 2000.

• What: The US is experiencing a significant increase in measles cases, with a large multistate outbreak.
• Who: The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), state health departments, individuals infected with measles, and public health officials.
• When: As of Wednesday, 2025, with the outbreak expected to continue with additional cases reported on Friday.
• Where: Primarily in West Texas, with spread to New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Ohio, Montana and Michigan.

The surge in measles cases in the US underscores the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates. The West Texas outbreak highlights how quickly the disease can spread in under-vaccinated communities. The fact that only a small percentage of cases are in vaccinated individuals demonstrates the effectiveness of the MMR vaccine. The increase in measles deaths, equaling the total from the previous two decades, is a stark reminder of the severity of the disease.

The US faces a severe measles outbreak in 2025, with cases exceeding 1,000 and approaching levels not seen since the disease's elimination in 2000. This resurgence is largely attributed to declining vaccination rates and the proliferation of misinformation, which have eroded public trust in vaccines. The majority of cases are among unvaccinated individuals, particularly children, and are linked to outbreaks in close-knit, under-vaccinated communities. These outbreaks have led to hospitalizations and, tragically, deaths, marking the first fatalities in a decade. Public health officials are intensifying efforts to contain the spread through community engagement, education, and vaccination campaigns, but the politicization of medical information and the persistence of anti-vaccine sentiment pose significant challenges. Addressing misinformation, promoting vaccination, and ensuring equitable access to healthcare are critical to preventing further spread and protecting vulnerable populations from this preventable disease.