At a Glance
- U.S. measles cases hit 2,065 in 2025, the first time over 2,000 in 30 years.
- 93% of cases were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination status.
- Texas, Arizona, South Carolina led with 803, 187, and 156 cases respectively.
- Why it matters: Rising measles threatens public health and could revoke the country’s elimination status.
The United States recorded its first measles outbreak exceeding 2,000 cases in over three decades, with 2,065 confirmed cases as of Dec. 30. Most cases involved people who were not vaccinated, raising concerns about vaccine coverage. The surge coincides with criticism from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has promoted unverified prevention methods.
2025 Outbreak Overview
The CDC reports 2,065 confirmed cases, a dramatic jump from 285 in 2024. Of the total, 93% were unvaccinated or had unknown status. The disease was officially declared eliminated in 2000, but the current trend may lead to a status review.
State Impact
- Texas: 803 cases
- Arizona: 187 cases
- South Carolina: 156 cases
- 2,041 cases reported across 43 states
- 24 cases among international visitors
| State | Cases |
|---|---|
| Texas | 803 |
| Arizona | 187 |
| South Carolina | 156 |
The outbreak spread to 43 states, with the majority of cases concentrated in the three states listed above.
Vaccination and Public Health
The MMR vaccine remains the most effective prevention, with a 97% efficacy rate after two doses. Public health officials warn that the resurgence could undermine decades of progress. Health Secretary Kennedy has publicly promoted vitamin A and cod liver oil as alternatives to vaccination, a stance that contradicts CDC guidance.
Key Takeaways
- Measles cases exceeded 2,000 for the first time in 30 years.
- Unvaccinated individuals comprise the majority of infections.
- Texas, Arizona, and South Carolina are hardest hit.
The spike underscores the need for renewed vaccination efforts to protect public health.
