Measles Cases Surge in the U.S., Reaching Levels Not Seen in Decades
The United States is experiencing a significant resurgence of measles, with 2,281 cases reported in 2025 – the highest number in decades. This increase raises concerns about declining vaccination rates and the potential for wider outbreaks, highlighting the importance of preventative measures to protect public health.
While measles was considered eliminated in the U.S. By 2000, cases are now on the rise. The vast majority of those infected were unvaccinated, according to recent data. Measles is highly contagious, with one infected person able to spread the virus to as many as 18 unvaccinated individuals, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports.
The disease can lead to serious complications, including encephalitis (brain inflammation) with nerve cell damage, and even death. Globally, approximately 11 million people were infected with measles in 2024, an increase of 800,000 cases compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019. The WHO identifies measles as the most contagious virus in the world, with outbreaks reported in 59 countries, resulting in 95,000 fatalities.
Health officials emphasize the critical require for widespread vaccination. The WHO recommends a 95% vaccination rate for the two-dose measles vaccine. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that vaccination rates among kindergarteners have not met this threshold since 2019 and have been declining annually.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, initially expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of measles vaccines. However, given the recent surge in cases, he has since reversed his position, stating that vaccination is now the most effective method to curb the spread of the disease.
According to data from Johns Hopkins University, as of July 8, 2025, 1,283 measles cases have been reported across the country, with 155 hospitalizations and three deaths. All three fatalities involved unvaccinated individuals. This number of deaths is equivalent to the total number of measles-related deaths in the U.S. From 2001 to 2024.
Experts warn that the decline in vaccination rates could signal broader issues within the vaccination program. Viroologist Rik de Swart of Erasmus MC described measles as a “canary in the coal mine,” suggesting that vulnerabilities in vaccination programs are first apparent with this highly contagious disease. Pediatrician Eric Ball warned of a “forebode of what is to come,” noting that a measles resurgence suggests other vaccine-preventable diseases may follow.
The decrease in vaccination rates in the U.S. Is linked to the growing anti-vaccine movement, with Secretary Kennedy previously praising figures like Andrew Wakefield, whose research falsely linked the MMR vaccine to autism. The findings underscore ongoing public health challenges and the need for continued efforts to promote vaccine confidence and accessibility.
