Measles Cases Surge to 1,500 in US, Ending Decade-Long No-Fatality Streak
Measles cases in the US have surged to alarming levels in 2025, with over 1,500 confirmed cases, the highest in nearly three decades. The outbreak has led to hospitalizations and deaths, ending a decade-long streak without measles-related fatalities. Texas and New Mexico have been particularly hard hit.
The CDC reports that 92% of these cases involved unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status. Worryingly, vaccination rates among kindergartners have dropped below the herd immunity threshold, making outbreaks more likely. In a worst-case scenario, a 50% decline in vaccination rates could result in a staggering 51.2 million measles cases, potentially making measles endemic within five years.
Research suggests that if current vaccination rates persist, the US could see up to 851,300 measles cases in the next 25 years. New Mexico has recently declared the end of its large-scale outbreak, but cases continue to be reported across the country. The US surpassed 1,000 measles cases in May 2025, and by September 30, the number had risen to 1,544, surpassing the 2019 record of 1,274 cases.
Measles outbreaks are preventable through vaccination, yet the US is facing its worst measles crisis in decades. With 191 hospitalizations and 3 deaths in 2025, public health officials urge increased vaccination efforts to protect communities and prevent further spread.
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