Stay Alert for Measles Cases…

Since early 2025, measles cases have been increasing and we’ve had several large outbreaks in the United States. There were 49 outbreaks in 2025 (defined as three or more cases), and 87% of cases were outbreak-associated. Most cases were among children and adolescents who had not received a measles vaccine or whose vaccination history was unknown. Three measles deaths were reported: one in an unvaccinated adult in New Mexico and two in unvaccinated school-aged children in Texas. Measles cases continue to be reported in jurisdictions across the United States.

Measles is extremely contagious and begins with fever, cough, coryza (runny nose), and conjunctivitis (pink eye), followed 2–4 days later by a rash that starts on the face and spreads downward on the body.  Infected people are contagious from 4 days before the rash starts through 4 days afterward.  The virus is transmitted by direct contact with infectious droplets or by airborne spread when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes and can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to 2 hours after an infected person leaves an area. Measles can cause severe health complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and death. MMR vaccination remains the best way to protect against measles and its complications.

If you think you have measles or have been exposed to measles:

• Isolate immediately, & call your healthcare provider.