As of early April 2025, the United States has reported over 700 confirmed cases of measles across 25 states, marking the highest number of cases seen since 2019. A significant portion of the cases has been concentrated in Texas, which has reported more than 500 cases.
Health officials have pointed to several contributing factors behind the increase, including a decline in vaccination rates and stagnant funding for public health initiatives. National vaccination coverage among kindergartners dropped to 92.7% in 2023, falling below the 95% threshold generally required to maintain herd immunity. In some areas, particularly in Texas, long-standing funding issues have weakened local health departments’ ability to promote and administer vaccines.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to serious complications, especially among young children. Public health guidelines recommend that children receive two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is estimated to be about 97% effective in preventing measles infection.
Health experts are encouraging communities to take preventive steps to avoid further spread, including staying current on vaccinations and consulting healthcare providers. Some have raised concerns that ongoing efforts to ease vaccine requirements in various states may make it more difficult to contain the disease in the future. Public health agencies continue to monitor the situation and promote awareness about the importance of immunization.
