The United States has surpassed 1,000 confirmed measles cases in 2025, marking the most significant outbreak in over five years. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports 1,001 cases across 31 states, with Texas accounting for 709. While the infection rate in Texas shows signs of slowing, the outbreak remains a pressing public health concern.

The Texas Department of State Health Services notes that only about 1% of current cases are actively infectious, indicating a potential decline in transmission. Nevertheless, the outbreak has resulted in two child fatalities in Texas and one adult death in New Mexico. Approximately 13% of those infected nationwide have required hospitalization.

A significant factor contributing to the outbreak is the decline in measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination rates. Among kindergarteners, vaccination coverage has dropped from 95.2% in the 2019–2020 school year to 92.7% in 2025. This decrease is largely attributed to vaccine misinformation and skepticism that intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Health officials emphasize the importance of the MMR vaccine, which is 97% effective after two doses. Efforts to control the outbreak include setting up vaccination clinics and public awareness campaigns. However, these initiatives face challenges due to funding cuts and mixed messages from public figures.

The CDC warns that if vaccination rates continue to decline, the U.S. risks the return of endemic measles, a disease previously declared eliminated in the country in 2000. The current situation underscores the critical need for robust vaccination programs and public health education to prevent future outbreaks.