Have US Measles Cases Surpassed 1,000 in 2025?
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Synopsis
In 2025, the United States has seen a concerning rise in measles cases, exceeding 1,000 for the first time in six years. Health experts emphasize the necessity of vaccination to combat this highly contagious disease. Discover the implications of this outbreak and the critical need for public awareness.
Key Takeaways
- Measles cases in the US have surpassed 1,000 for the first time since 2019.
- 14 outbreaks have been reported nationwide this year.
- Texas leads the nation with the highest number of cases.
- Vaccination is crucial for prevention against measles.
- 96% of cases are among unvaccinated individuals.
Los Angeles, May 10 (NationPress) The United States has reported over 1,000 measles cases in 2025, reaching the highest annual total in six years, as per the latest statistics from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
This marks the first occasion that the nation has exceeded 1,000 measles cases in a single year since 2019, when there were 1,274 infections reported nationwide, according to a report by the Xinhua news agency, citing CDC data.
As of Thursday, a total of 1,001 cases have been confirmed across 31 US jurisdictions, which includes 126 hospitalizations and three fatalities, according to the CDC.
This year has seen 14 measles outbreaks reported across the country, with the CDC defining an outbreak as three or more connected cases.
About 13 percent of those infected this year have required hospitalization, with young children under the age of 5 comprising the majority of severe cases.
Alarmingly, approximately 96 percent of confirmed measles cases involved individuals who were either unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown, as per CDC data.
Texas has reported the highest case count, with 709 confirmed infections as of Friday, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. This outbreak has significantly impacted the western region of the state, leading to 92 hospitalizations and the deaths of two unvaccinated school-aged children without known underlying health conditions.
A third measles-related death was reported in New Mexico, involving an unvaccinated adult who tested positive posthumously, according to the state's Department of Health. New Mexico has confirmed 71 cases this year, mainly concentrated in Lea County, near western Texas.
This year's case count indicates a substantial rise compared to 2024, when only 285 measles cases were documented across the nation.
Health officials are urging the public and healthcare providers to stay alert, particularly when assessing patients exhibiting fever and rash symptoms who have recently traveled or been in contact with known cases.
Measles is an extremely contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected individual coughs or sneezes. It can lead to symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that spreads over the body. Serious complications may arise, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death.
The CDC continues to stress that vaccination is the most effective means of preventing measles. Two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine provide robust protection against the virus.
Point of View
It is our responsibility to inform and educate the public on the rising incidence of measles in the United States. This alarming trend highlights the necessity for increased vaccination efforts and public health vigilance. The Nation remains committed to bringing you the latest updates and insights on this critical health issue.
NationPress
21/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current measles case count in the US?
As of now, the United States has reported over 1,000 measles cases in 2025, the highest number in six years.
What are the symptoms of measles?
Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that spreads over the body.
How can measles be prevented?
Vaccination with two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles.
Who is most at risk for severe measles cases?
Children under the age of 5 are most likely to experience severe cases of measles.
What percentage of cases involved unvaccinated individuals?
Approximately 96 percent of confirmed measles cases in 2025 have occurred in individuals who were unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown.
