1,000 Measles Cases in 2025 Marks the 2nd Worst Year Since Elimination

The measles outbreak that began in West Texas is no longer confined—it’s now a nationwide concern. More than 1,000 measles cases have been reported in the United States so far in 2025, according the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC). That’s the highest case count in a single year since 2019, and only the second time cases have surpassed 1,000 since the disease was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000.

As of May 8, at least 1,002 measles cases have been confirmed, with more than 800 linked to a large, ongoing outbreak centered in Gaines County, Texas. That cluster has spread to New Mexico, Oklahoma, and beyond. Additional updates from state health departments are expected to push that number higher in the coming days.

So far this year, 13% of reported cases have resulted in hospitalization, and 2% occurred in individuals who had received at least one dose of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. Three measles-related deaths have been confirmed in 2025—equal to the total number of measles deaths reported in the US over the past two decades combined.

The virus has now spread to at least 31 states, including Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, New York State, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington.

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through coughing, sneezing and even lingering airborne particles. It often starts with cold-like symptoms—fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes—before a telltale red rash appears. While it may seem mild at first, measles can lead to serious complications, especially in young children, including pneumonia, brain swelling and in rare cases, death.

Most infections involve children ages 0 to 19, including 299 cases in children under 5 and 376 cases in those aged 5 to 19. Eighty-five people have been hospitalized, and two deaths have been confirmed with one under investigation. CDC data shows that only 2% of cases this year have been reported in people who have gotten one or two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Low Vaccination Rates Fueling the Outbreak

Health officials warn that the number of cases may continue to rise, especially given low vaccination rates in the area. Nearly 1 in 5 incoming kindergartners in Gaines County weren’t vaccinated against measles for the 2023-24 school year. Other affected counties—Lynn, Lubbock, and Yoakum—also fall short of the 95% vaccination rate recommended by the US Department of Health and Human Services to prevent outbreaks. Nationally, the US has failed to meet this benchmark for four consecutive years.

In response, local health departments are hosting free vaccination clinics. The South Plains Public Health District, which covers Gaines County, has administered more than 100 Measles Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccines and expanded clinic hours to seven days a week.

Why Measles Is Making a Comeback

Measles was nearly eradicated in the US by the 1980s thanks to widespread vaccination. Before the measles vaccine was introduced in 1963, an estimated 3 to 4 million Americans contracted the virus annually. Vaccination efforts led to a 99% drop in cases, but recent years have seen a resurgence.

While the CDC says the risk of widespread outbreaks remains low due to overall population immunity, pockets of low vaccination coverage leave some communities vulnerable. To prevent future outbreaks, the CDC urges parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated.

How to Protect Your Family

The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine remains the most effective defense. The CDC recommends children receive the first dose between 12 and 15 months of age and a second between 4 and 6 years old. Two doses are about 97% effective at preventing measles.

If you live near an affected area or your child isn’t up to date on their vaccines, contact your pediatrician or local health department. As the outbreak grows, health officials emphasize that vaccination and community awareness are key to stopping the spread of this preventable disease.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.