The measles outbreak of 2025 is spreading quickly across the United States. More than 250 people have been confirmed to have the virus. The outbreak has already caused two deaths, including the tragic death of an unvaccinated child. Measles has been detected in several states, including Pennsylvania, California, and Oklahoma.
Measles Hits Multiple States
The outbreak started in Texas and New Mexico. However, it is now affecting many other states, including Alaska, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Washington.
Texas remains the hardest-hit state. The state reported 223 cases since late January. Of these, 29 people were hospitalized. More than half of the cases involved children under 17. Most of those infected were unvaccinated. Specifically, 80 cases were in unvaccinated individuals, 138 had an unknown vaccination status, and only five had received at least one dose of the measles vaccine.
New Mexico has also seen a rise in cases. The state has confirmed 33 cases of measles. One of these cases is the first in Eddy County, which lies outside the initial outbreak area. Like Texas, most of the people infected in New Mexico were unvaccinated.
Oklahoma confirmed its first two cases this week. Vermont also reported one case in a school-aged child. Meanwhile, California recorded its first measles cases in Los Angeles and Fresno counties.
The Importance of the Measles Vaccine
Measles spreads easily and can lead to serious health problems, such as pneumonia, brain swelling, and death. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stresses the importance of vaccination. The MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, provides 97% lifetime protection after two doses. It offers 93% protection with just one dose.
Health experts point out that low vaccination rates are driving this outbreak. The CDC recommends vaccinating at least 95% of people in a community to achieve herd immunity. This protects even those who cannot receive the vaccine, such as infants and people with weakened immune systems.
Unfortunately, misinformation about vaccines is making people hesitant to get vaccinated. False claims about vaccine safety continue to spread, contributing to the problem.
Misinformation and Vaccine Hesitancy
Misinformation about vaccines is becoming a bigger issue. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a well-known health official, made false claims on Fox News that the measles vaccine causes the same diseases as measles itself. This claim is not true. Research shows that the side effects of the vaccine are much less severe than the complications caused by the virus.
Despite clear evidence that vaccines are safe, vaccine hesitancy continues to grow. Misinformation spreads quickly on social media, which makes it harder to convince people to get vaccinated.
Government Action and Political Developments
The CDC is concerned that the outbreak will continue to spread. Measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, meaning the virus was no longer spreading widely. However, this year’s outbreak has brought the virus back into the spotlight.
To respond, the Biden administration withdrew its nomination of Dave Weldon as the next CDC director. Weldon, a former Republican congressman and doctor, has questioned the safety of vaccines in the past. The withdrawal came just hours before he was scheduled to testify before the Senate health committee.
This political decision has sparked debates about vaccine safety. As cases of measles rise, public health experts are urging people to stay up to date on vaccinations.
What You Can Do to Stay Safe
As the measles outbreak continues, health officials encourage people to get vaccinated. The best way to protect yourself and others is by getting the MMR vaccine. Health experts recommend that children receive two doses of the vaccine, starting at age one. Adults who have not been vaccinated should get the vaccine as well.
It’s also a good idea to check with your doctor to ensure you’re up to date on your vaccinations.
Remember that measles is serious. The CDC urges everyone to get vaccinated to stop the spread of the virus.
The measles outbreak in the U.S. is growing. More than 250 cases have been confirmed in 2025, with Texas being the hardest-hit state. Other states, including New Mexico, Oklahoma, and California, have also seen cases. Health experts continue to stress the importance of vaccination. Misinformation about vaccines is making the situation worse.
If you have not received the MMR vaccine, talk to your doctor. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself and others from measles. Stay informed, and help stop the spread of the virus.