Measles: A Growing Threat in the U. S.

Measles is making a comeback in the U. S. , with cases soaring to levels not seen in decades. The current outbreak, fueled by a surge in Texas, has surpassed the number of cases reported in any year since 1992. Experts attribute this rise to several factors, including increased travel during the summer and a decline in vaccination rates. The highly contagious measles virus spreads easily, especially among unvaccinated individuals. Symptoms include a distinctive rash, fever, and red eyes. While most people recover, complications can be severe, ranging from pneumonia to brain swelling and even death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that measles can hospitalize one in five infected individuals and cause pneumonia in one in 20 children. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine has been highly successful in keeping the disease in check for years. However, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted routine immunization schedules and gave anti-vaccine groups more influence. This has led to a potential decline in herd immunity, making the population more vulnerable to outbreaks. As of now, there have been 1, 297 confirmed cases of measles in 2025, according to data from Johns Hopkins University. This number exceeds the cases reported in 2019 and is second only to the 2, 126 cases reported in 1992. Tragically, three people have died in this outbreak, including two unvaccinated children in Texas and one unvaccinated adult in New Mexico. The situation is further complicated by recent changes in federal vaccine policy. The health secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. , has faced criticism for his stance on vaccines. In June, he replaced all members of a key vaccine advisory panel with individuals who share his views. This move has raised concerns about the future of vaccine policy and public health.