US Sees Slight Increase in Measles Cases as New Outbreak Reported in Colorado

In the United States, recent data indicates a modest rise in measles cases, with a new outbreak emerging in Colorado and a fresh case reported in Texas. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed there are now 1,088 confirmed measles cases nationwide, reflecting an increase of 42 cases from the previous week.

Texas remains heavily impacted, with a total of 738 cases across 35 counties, predominantly in West Texas. An outbreak in Gaines County, where vaccination rates are low among the Mennonite community, accounts for over half of these cases. The state has also seen tragic fatalities, including an 8-year-old child who died from measles-related pulmonary failure, highlighting the ongoing risks of the virus.

Other significant outbreaks include Ontario, Canada, with 1,888 cases, Alberta with 628, and Chihuahua in Mexico with 1,693 cases and three fatalities. The spread in North America is linked to international travel, emphasizing the importance of vaccination.

In neighboring states, New Mexico reports 79 cases, with one adult fatality due to non-treatment. Oklahoma maintains 14 confirmed cases, while Colorado has seven cases from 2025, most of which are linked to an international flight arriving at Denver International Airport.

Kansas has 64 cases, primarily in Gray County, and Michigan reports eight cases, including an outbreak in Montcalm County tied to Ontario. Montana has 13 cases, mainly in Gallatin County, marking the state's first cases in 35 years. North Dakota has seen a surge with 29 cases, mostly unvaccinated individuals, including several linked to community transmission.

Ohio reports 34 cases, with clusters near Cleveland and east-central Ohio. Pennsylvania has 15 cases, including cases in Montgomery County and Erie County. Tennessee remains steady with six cases, primarily in the central part of the state.

The CDC continues to monitor ongoing cases across the country, many resulting from international travel exposure. The primary preventive measure remains vaccination with the MMR vaccine, which provides high herd immunity when coverage exceeds 95%. However, vaccination rates have declined nationwide, partly due to pandemic-related disruptions and increased personal exemption claims.

Symptoms of measles include high fever, cough, runny nose, and characteristic rash that appears three to five days after initial symptoms. There is no specific antiviral treatment; healthcare providers focus on alleviating symptoms and preventing complications such as pneumonia, blindness, or brain swelling.

Experts emphasize the importance of vaccination and early recognition to prevent further spread of this highly contagious disease.