Tennessee Reports New Measles Cases Amid Nationwide Outbreaks

Tennessee has recently confirmed six cases of measles, marking its addition to the list of ten states currently experiencing outbreaks. While all cases are concentrated in the central region of the state, authorities have indicated that at least three of these cases are related. The specifics regarding whether these cases are connected to outbreaks in other states or when the outbreak began have not been disclosed.

This development comes amid a rising number of measles cases across the United States. As of April 2025, the country has reported over 800 instances of measles, a sharp increase compared to previous years. The largest outbreak remains in Texas, where more than 600 cases have been documented over a period nearing three months, particularly in the western part of the state.

In addition to Texas, multiple other states are grappling with active measles outbreaks, defined by the presence of three or more cases. These include Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Montana, Oklahoma, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New Mexico. Cases have also been linked to outbreaks in Canada and Mexico, with Mexico reporting over 500 cases, some of which are genetically connected to the Texas outbreak.

Measles, caused by a highly contagious airborne virus, can spread rapidly in communities with low vaccination coverage. Despite the United States being declared free of endemic measles since 2000, vaccine hesitancy and declining vaccination rates have led to these recent outbreaks. Health officials warn that the virus could persist in communities with insufficient herd immunity, potentially circulating for a year or more.

In Texas, the outbreak has resulted in the death of an 8-year-old child who was unvaccinated and had no underlying health conditions. The state reports over 600 cases, primarily in Gaines County, where a Mennonite community with low vaccination rates resides. New Mexico has also reported cases linked to the Texas outbreak, with two new cases confirmed recently, totaling 65 cases in the state.

Other affected states include Kansas, with 37 cases primarily in the southwest; Oklahoma, with 13 cases; Ohio, with 32 cases; Indiana, with eight cases detected so far; Pennsylvania, experiencing an outbreak with nine cases; Michigan, with eight cases; and Montana, where five cases have been confirmed—marking Montana’s first cases in over three decades.

The symptoms of measles typically begin with fever, runny nose, cough, and red eyes, followed by a rash that appears three to five days after initial symptoms. Although most children recover, measles can cause serious complications such as pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death.

Vaccination remains the most effective method to prevent measles. The MMR vaccine, which provides immunity against measles, mumps, and rubella, is recommended for children starting at 12-15 months, with a second dose given between 4-6 years old. Achieving high vaccination coverage—above 95%—is crucial for maintaining herd immunity and preventing outbreaks.

Health officials emphasize that vaccination not only protects individuals but also communities by limiting the spread of this highly contagious disease. Individuals with documented immunity from past infection or vaccination are generally protected, but waning immunity and vaccine hesitancy threaten progress toward elimination.

As the outbreak continues to evolve, public health authorities urge residents to stay informed, get vaccinated if eligible, and follow guidance to prevent further spread of measles. For up-to-date information, consult local health departments and trusted sources.

(Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-04-tennessee-states-measles-outbreaks.html)