Measles resurgence threatens global health: what you need to know

Measles resurgence in 2025 poses global health threat: Key facts, prevention tips

Measles, one of the most contagious and preventable diseases, is making a dangerous comeback worldwide.  As of April 10, 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) has reported approximately 82,068 suspected measles cases globally. This figure indicates a significant increase compared to previous years, underscoring the resurgence of measles worldwide.

In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 1,088 confirmed measles cases across 33 jurisdictions as of May 29, 2025. This marks a substantial rise from the 285 cases reported in 2024, highlighting the growing concern over measles outbreaks in the country.

Why measles is resurging globally

The resurgence of measles is primarily attributed to:

• Declining vaccination rates: In 2023, over 22 million children missed their first dose of the measles vaccine, leading to decreased herd immunity. cdc.gov+3cdc.gov+3who.int+3
• COVID-19 pandemic disruptions: The pandemic disrupted routine immunization services, causing significant backsliding in vaccination coverage.unicef.org.au+1who.int+1
• Vaccine hesitancy: Misinformation and skepticism about vaccines have led to increased refusal rates in various communities.

The U.S. faces its worst measles outbreak in decades

In 2025, the United States is experiencing a significant surge in measles cases, with 1,088 confirmed cases and three deaths reported across 32 states as of May. This marks the largest outbreak since 2000, when measles was declared eliminated in the United States.

Key factors contributing to the U.S. outbreak include:

• Low vaccination coverage: Nearly 80% of over 2,000 U.S. counties have seen declines in measles vaccination rates post-COVID-19.
• Travel-related cases: Many outbreaks are linked to domestic and international travel, highlighting the importance of vaccination before traveling.
• Clusters of unvaccinated individuals: Outbreaks are more severe in communities with low vaccination rates, such as Gaines County, Texas, which reported 411 cases with a vaccination rate below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity.

The dangers of measles

Measles is not just a rash and fever; it can lead to severe complications, including:

• Pneumonia: A leading cause of death in young children with measles.
• Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain that can cause convulsions, deafness, or intellectual disability.
• Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE): A rare but fatal brain disorder that can occur years after measles infection.

Additionally, measles can cause "immune amnesia," erasing the immune system's memory of previous infections and vaccinations, making individuals more susceptible to other diseases.

Protecting yourself and your community

To combat the resurgence of measles:

• Ensure vaccination: Verify that you and your family members are up to date with the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine. Two doses are about 97% effective at preventing measles.
• Check travel advisories: Before traveling, especially internationally, consult health advisories and ensure vaccinations are current.
• Promote community immunity: Encourage others to vaccinate, as high community vaccination rates protect those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants and immunocompromised individuals.

Five key facts to know about measles

1. It’s one of the most contagious diseases in the world:

Measles can linger in the air for up to two hours. Up to 90% of unvaccinated people exposed to it will become infected.

2. Outbreaks are increasingly linked to international travel:

As global mobility rebounds post-pandemic, travelers are spreading measles across borders. Many new outbreaks stem from unvaccinated individuals returning from countries with active cases.

3. Measles is not just a childhood disease:

While mostly associated with children, anyone unvaccinated is at risk, including teens and adults.

4. One case can spread like wildfire:

Even a single infected person in an unvaccinated population can trigger a major outbreak, especially in schools and community centers.

5. The MMR vaccine is highly effective and safe:

Two doses provide 97% protection. Yet millions of children globally miss vaccinations each year, leaving populations vulnerable.

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