This year's measles outbreak is alarming, marking the worst resurgence of the disease since it was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000. By mid-2025, reported cases have already exceeded 1,274, surpassing the peak of all cases recorded in 2019. According to data from the Johns Hopkins University Center for Outbreak Response Innovation, there were a total of 1,277 confirmed cases as of July 5. Most of these cases are linked to a significant outbreak that began in west Texas, with additional cases arising from community transmission and travel.
The ongoing measles outbreak has had serious repercussions on public health, leading to at least 155 hospitalizations. Among these, there are 431 adults and 824 children affected, with three confirmed deaths reported. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes the severity of this situation, highlighting that measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases known. Remarkably, 92% of unvaccinated individuals exposed to the virus will contract the disease, and 1 in 5 of these cases results in hospitalization.
As of July 5, confirmed measles cases have emerged from 39 states and jurisdictions across the U.S. The states with the highest number of cases include Texas, New Mexico, and Kansas, according to the data from the Center for Outbreak Response Innovation and the CDC. In Texas alone, the situation is particularly dire, with 36 counties reporting cases linked to the outbreak.
The measles outbreak in west Texas continues to escalate, with 753 confirmed cases recorded since January 2025. This includes two tragic deaths among school-age children residing in the region most affected by this outbreak, as reported by the Texas Department of State Health Services.
Understanding the symptoms of this vaccine-preventable disease is crucial for preventing its spread. Symptoms typically manifest 7 to 14 days after exposure to the virus and can include:
High fever Cough Runny nose Watery eyesThe measles rash generally appears 3 to 5 days after the onset of the initial symptoms. Other notable signs include:
Koplik's spots: Tiny white spots that may develop inside the mouth 2 to 3 days after symptoms begin. Small raised bumps: These may appear on top of flat red spots, which can merge as they spread from the head downwards.When the rash appears, a person's fever may spike to over 104 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating a more severe infection.
To protect yourself and others from this highly contagious disease, vaccination is the most effective strategy. Staying informed about the symptoms and promoting vaccination within communities can significantly help in controlling and preventing further outbreaks of measles.
