As of May 29, 2025, the United States has reported 1,088 confirmed measles cases across 33 jurisdictions, marking the largest outbreak since 2020. Notably, 96% of these cases are linked to 14 ongoing outbreaks, predominantly affecting unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status. The resurgence of this highly contagious virus underscores the critical importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage to protect public health.
Key Statistics
- Confirmed Cases: 1,088 across 33 U.S. jurisdictions.
- Outbreaks Reported: 14, with 90% of cases linked to these outbreaks.
- Hospitalizations: 85 patients (11%) hospitalized.
- Deaths: 3 reported, the first since 2015.
- Vaccination Status: 96% unvaccinated or unknown vaccination status.
Global Perspective :
The resurgence is not confined to the U.S. In the WHO Region of the Americas, 2,318 measles cases, including three deaths, have been confirmed in six countries as of April 18, 2025—an 11-fold increase compared to the same period in 2024. Most cases involve individuals aged 1 to 29 years who are unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status. The majority of these cases are imported or linked to importation, highlighting the global nature of this threat.
Why This Matters ?
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known to humans, capable of infecting up to 90% of susceptible close contacts. It can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and death. The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine remains the most effective protection, yet vaccination rates have declined in many regions, contributing to the current resurgence.
Call to Action !
- Ensure you and your family are up to date with the MMR vaccine.
- Stay informed about measles symptoms—fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and rash.
- Support community vaccination efforts and combat misinformation.
The 2025 measles epidemic is a stark reminder of the vital role vaccination plays in preventing infectious diseases. Through informed action, we can protect public health and limit further outbreaks.
At Gentaur, we support the scientific community by providing high-quality PCR kits and positive controls for reliable and timely detection of measles RNA, facilitating early intervention and research efforts.
Together, reinforcing prevention and diagnostics is key to mitigating this epidemic and safeguarding public health.
ReferencesÂ
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Measles Data and Research
- World Health Organization (WHO) – Measles Updates