US Reports Highest Measles Surge in Three Decades With 1,618 Cases, 3 Deaths

The United States has reported 1,618 measles cases in 2025, marking the highest annual tally since 1992, with three deaths and nearly 200 hospitalizations, including 95 children under five. Approximately 92 percent of these cases occurred among unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status, highlighting a significant decline in immunization coverage nationwide. Outbreaks have been linked to communities with historically low vaccination rates, such as the ongoing cluster in Spartanburg County, South Carolina, involving schools and local businesses. Experts warn this resurgence represents a major setback in measles prevention efforts, emphasizing the critical importance of maintaining high vaccine coverage to prevent further spread. Measles remains one of the most contagious viral diseases, capable of causing severe complications, particularly in young children, despite the availability of a safe and effective vaccine since 1963. Public health authorities continue to urge the public to ensure full vaccination through the MMR vaccine to combat this alarming trend.