Measles cases are on the rise in the United States as childhood vaccination rates continue to decline. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as of February 6, 2025, there have been 14 reported cases across five jurisdictions: Alaska, Georgia, New York City, Rhode Island, and Texas. The CDC reports that 64% of these cases are associated with outbreaks, highlighting the contagious nature of the disease.
In Texas, a measles outbreak has grown to 24 cases, with most patients being unvaccinated children under 18. The Texas Department of State Health Services is monitoring the situation and expects more cases. Dr. Ari Brown, a pediatrician in Austin, emphasizes the importance of vaccination, stating, “Pockets of under-vaccinated communities and drops in vaccination rates overall leave everyone at risk.” Dr. Brown told AAP News.
The decline in vaccination rates is concerning, as measles is highly contagious and can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia and brain swelling. The CDC recommends two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is 97% effective at preventing measles. However, vaccination coverage among U.S. kindergartners has decreased from 95.2% in the 2019-2020 school year to 92.7% in the 2023-2024 school year, leaving many children vulnerable to the disease.
The CDC and health experts urge parents to vaccinate their children to prevent further outbreaks and protect public health. As measles cases continue to rise, the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates becomes increasingly clear.
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