U.S. Reports Over 1,000 Measles Cases Across 11 States Amid Ongoing Outbreaks

As of May 9, 2025, the United States has surpassed 1,000 cases of measles, with active outbreaks reported in 11 states. The total number of confirmed cases stands at 1,001, with Texas accounting for the majority, reporting 709 cases. The outbreak in Texas, which began approximately three months ago, primarily affects West Texas but has also impacted neighboring states such as New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Kansas. Notably, two unvaccinated children in West Texas lost their lives to measles-related complications, highlighting the severity of the current situation.

The situation in Texas is concentrated mainly in Gaines County, where over 403 cases have been recorded since late January. The outbreak initially emerged within a closely-knit, undervaccinated Mennonite community. In addition to Texas, other states including Indiana, Michigan, Montana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee are experiencing active outbreaks, each with at least three related cases. Michigan’s cases are linked to an outbreak in Ontario, Canada, which has seen over 1,440 cases since October.

Outside the U.S., outbreaks are also ongoing in Mexico and Canada, all linked by the same strain of the measles virus. Mexico’s Chihuahua state has reported over 1,000 cases and one death.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads easily through airborne particles when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. Although the disease was declared eliminated from the U.S. in 2000, recent trends show an increase in cases due to declining vaccination rates, fueled by vaccine hesitancy and exemptions.

The current outbreaks have raised concerns among health officials about the potential for the virus to spread for up to a year if vaccination coverage does not improve. Vaccination remains the most effective tool for prevention, with the MMR vaccine recommended for children at 12-15 months and again at 4-6 years of age. Adults who haven't been vaccinated or lack proof of immunity are encouraged to get vaccinated, especially in outbreak areas.

Symptoms of measles include high fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes, and a rash that usually appears three to five days after initial symptoms. The rash starts on the face and spreads downward. Severe cases can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, brain swelling, blindness, or death.

There is no specific treatment for measles, so medical care focuses on symptom relief and preventing complications. The growing number of cases underscores the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to prevent further outbreaks.