As of May 5, 2025, the United States is experiencing its most severe measles outbreak in over two decades, with Texas and New Mexico at the epicenter.
Current Case Counts and Impact
- Texas: The Texas Department of State Health Services reports 683 confirmed measles cases across 29 counties. Gaines County remains the hardest hit, accounting for nearly 60% of cases. The outbreak has led to 89 hospitalizations and two fatalities among unvaccinated children.
- New Mexico: The New Mexico Department of Health confirms 67 cases, primarily in Lea County, which borders Gaines County, Texas. The outbreak has resulted in one adult fatality.
- Nationwide: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a total of 935 confirmed measles cases across 30 jurisdictions in 2025, with 93% associated with outbreaks.
Origin and Spread
The outbreak began in January 2025 within a close-knit Mennonite community in Gaines County, Texas, known for low vaccination rates. It has since spread to neighboring states, including New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Kansas, as well as into Mexico’s Chihuahua state.
Vaccination Status
Approximately 96% of those infected were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination status. While a small number of vaccinated individuals contracted measles, their symptoms were notably milder.
Public Health Response
Health officials have established mobile vaccination and testing clinics in affected areas to contain the spread. Efforts are focused on increasing MMR vaccination rates, particularly in communities with high exemption rates. The CDC emphasizes that maintaining at least a 95% vaccination rate is crucial to prevent such outbreaks.
This outbreak underscores the importance of vaccination in preventing the resurgence of diseases previously eliminated in the U.S.
Why This Matters
Measles is no joke—it’s one of the most contagious viruses out there. If someone with measles coughs, sneezes, or even just breathes in a shared space, the virus can linger in the air for up to two hours. If you’re unvaccinated and walk into that space, there’s a 90% chance you’ll catch it.
Symptoms typically show up 7 to 14 days after exposure and start with:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- A distinctive red rash that starts at the hairline and spreads downward
Serious complications can include pneumonia, brain swelling, and for vulnerable individuals—infants, pregnant people, and the immunocompromised—it can be fatal.
How to Protect Yourself
The best defense? Vaccination.
The CDC strongly recommends the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is 97% effective when given in two doses.
- Children: First dose at 12-15 months, second dose at 4-6 years
- Adults born before 1957: Likely immune due to natural exposure
- Adults born after 1957: At least one dose unless you have proof of immunity
- High-risk groups (college students, healthcare workers, international travelers, etc.): Should receive two doses, at least 28 days apart
Not sure if you were vaccinated? You can get a blood test to check your immunity, but honestly, if you’re in doubt, just get the shot—it won’t hurt, even if you’ve already been vaccinated before.
What About Vaccines from the 1960s?
If you were vaccinated in the early 1960s, check your records. The first measles vaccines (1963-1967) weren’t as effective, particularly the inactivated (killed) vaccine, which didn’t provide lasting immunity. If you received that version, you may need to be revaccinated with the current MMR vaccine.
Final Thoughts
While measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, outbreaks like this remind us why vaccines matter. If you’re vaccinated, you’re well-protected. If you’re not—or if you’re unsure—it’s worth checking your status and updating your immunity. The last thing anyone needs is a disease we have the tools to prevent.
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