Montana Experiences Its First Measles Outbreak in 35 Years: Essential Facts You Should Know

Montana has officially reported its first measles cases in 35 years, marking a significant public health development. As the ninth U.S. state currently facing an active measles outbreak, Montana's situation is part of a broader national resurgence. On April 22, 2025, health officials confirmed multiple cases within Gallatin County, involving unvaccinated children and adults who previously traveled out of state. This outbreak underscores the importance of vaccination and vigilance.

Nationally, the United States has seen nearly 800 cases of measles in 2025, with Texas leading the surge, especially in West Texas where an outbreak has persisted for nearly three months, totaling 597 cases. The outbreak has unfortunately resulted in the deaths of two unvaccinated elementary school children in Texas and one adult in New Mexico, also unvaccinated. Other states with active outbreaks—defined as having three or more cases—include Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Oklahoma, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New Mexico.

Measles is caused by a highly contagious airborne virus that spreads easily through coughs, sneezes, or breathing. Despite being preventable through vaccination, measles was considered eliminated from the U.S. since 2000, but recent declines in childhood vaccination rates have facilitated its resurgence. Experts warn that the virus could easily take hold in communities with low vaccination coverage, potentially causing outbreaks that may last for a year or more.

North America has also seen significant cases in Canada and Mexico. In Ontario, Canada, over 925 cases have been reported between mid-October 2024 and April 16, 2025, linked to the Texas outbreak. In Mexico, a large outbreak in Chihuahua state includes 433 cases as of April 18, highlighting the regional spread.

In the U.S., the outbreak details vary by state:

• Texas, with the highest number of cases, primarily in Gaines County, linked to a close-knit Mennonite community with low vaccination rates. The recent death involved an 8-year-old child without underlying health conditions.
• New Mexico reports 63 cases, mostly in Lea County, with cases genetically linked to Texas.
• Kansas has 37 cases across eight counties, with cases connected to the Texas and New Mexico outbreaks.
• Oklahoma remains steady with 12 cases, associated with the ongoing outbreaks.
• Ohio reports 30 cases, originating from unvaccinated individuals and linked to international travel.
• Indiana has confirmed a total of eight cases, mainly in Allen County.
• Pennsylvania has declared an outbreak in Erie County, with nine cases.
• Michigan has seven confirmed cases, part of a cluster linked to Ontario.

The resurgence of measles emphasizes the critical importance of the MMR vaccine. The CDC recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine—first between 12-15 months and second between 4-6 years old—to ensure immunity. Despite widespread availability, vaccination rates have declined, partly due to vaccine hesitancy and personal or religious exemptions, which diminish herd immunity.

Symptoms of measles typically begin with respiratory symptoms such as cough, runny nose, high fever, and watery eyes. A rash develops three to five days later, starting on the face and spreading downward. Severe complications can include pneumonia, brain swelling, blindness, and death. Currently, there is no specific treatment for measles; instead, healthcare providers focus on supportive care and preventing complications.

Public health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and urge vaccination to protect individuals and communities from this highly contagious disease.

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