US Measles Outbreak Hits 33-Year High

The United States is facing its largest measles outbreak in 33 years, with 1,288 cases reported in 2025, surpassing all yearly totals since elimination in 2000. Texas accounts for the largest outbreak, with over 750 cases and two child deaths, while an adult death has occurred in New Mexico. Outbreaks have been reported in more than three dozen states and Washington, DC. Health officials and experts link the resurgence to falling vaccination rates, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as international travel and outbreaks in neighboring countries like Canada and Mexico. The CDC warns that the spread could threaten the nation's measles elimination status and is urging increased vaccination. Although the outbreak in Texas is slowing, transmission remains active elsewhere, prompting calls for renewed public health vigilance.