Rise in Measles Cases in California Surpasses Entire 2024 Total

In 2025, California is experiencing a significant increase in measles cases, with reports exceeding the total cases documented in all of 2024. So far this year, the state has identified 16 cases of measles, marking a notable rise compared to 15 cases in 2024 and just four in 2023. The resurgence of this highly contagious disease comes despite California's relatively high vaccination rate, with approximately 96.5% of kindergartners vaccinated as of 2022-23.

This year’s cases are primarily linked to international travel and outbreaks in other states, notably Texas. The ongoing outbreak in Texas has resulted in around 750 cases and 97 hospitalizations, highlighting the persistent threat posed by measles. Across the nation, over 1,200 cases have been reported, including three deaths—the first fatalities linked to measles in over a decade. These fatalities involved unvaccinated individuals and emphasize the severity of the disease.

In California, cases have been identified in multiple counties, such as Fresno, Los Angeles, Orange, Placer, Riverside, Sacramento, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Tuolumne, and Yolo. Notably, the Santa Clara case in late May was traced back to international travel. There has been no evidence of sustained community transmission in California to date.

Health officials underline that unvaccinated individuals and those too young to be vaccinated remain highly vulnerable. Measles is known as one of the most infectious diseases, with a high transmission rate. The CDC indicates that maintaining a vaccination coverage of at least 95% is crucial to preventing outbreaks.

Dr. Erica Pan, director of the California Department of Public Health, expressed concern over the resurgence, emphasizing that neglecting scientific guidance and vaccination efforts could reverse decades of progress. Public health advocates continue to urge residents to stay current with their immunizations.

Despite challenges posed by misinformation and political changes—such as recent replacements on the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices—most parents and health providers remain committed to vaccination. Experts reiterate that vaccines are essential in protecting both individuals and communities from preventable diseases like measles.

The current trend serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination and vigilant public health measures to control the spread of measles and safeguard the population, especially in a context of increasing global travel and vaccine hesitancy.