Measles Cases Surge in the US, Potentially Ending Elimination Status

Strategic Insights -

The United States has reported a surge in measles cases, with 1,288 confirmed cases as of July 9, 2025, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This number, including the deaths of two children and one adult, is the highest in more than three decades. The increase in measles cases is attributed to a decline in vaccination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic and a global increase in measles cases.

Key Takeaways:

  • The measles outbreak is multifactorial, with vaccination rates declining to 80% in some areas, making populations more vulnerable to measles spread.
  • Measles was declared eliminated in the US in 2000, but the status is likely to change if cases continue to increase.
  • The best way to prevent measles is through vaccination, with two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine being 97% effective at preventing infection.
  • Young infants and immunocompromised individuals are particularly vulnerable to measles infection and should discuss vaccination options with their pediatrician.
  • The measles vaccine is incredibly safe and effective, with the risk of complications from measles significantly higher than any small risk from the vaccine.

Statistics:

  • 1,288 confirmed measles cases in the US as of July 9, 2025, including the deaths of two children and one adult.
  • 92% of infections were in people who were unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown.
  • 4% of those infected had received one dose of the MMR vaccine, and 4% had received two doses.
  • Vaccination rates against measles are high in Los Angeles, with 95% of children required to receive two doses of the MMR vaccine before attending public schools.
  • The measles vaccine is available free through the Vaccines for Children program.

Sources:

  • Arguably the most infectious person in a room is possibly someone who has pandemic. (no source)
  • The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released data on July 9, showing 1,288 confirmed measles cases, including the deaths of two children and one adult.
  • Sanchi Malhotra, MD, medical director of pediatric infection prevention for UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital and a professor in the division of pediatric infectious diseases at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA.
  • The world has experienced several measles outbreaks, including those last year in the United States, but new information has not led to so much concern before.