A recent measles outbreak is affecting the United States. More than 600 cases have been reported this year. This prompted health officials to take strict action. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now urges travelers to get extra measles shots. This is if they go to outbreak areas. Continue reading to learn more about the measles outbreak in the U.S. and CDC vaccination recommendations.
Current Situation
As of April 11, 2025, the CDC reports that there are over 712 confirmed measles cases. This is across 24 states. Also, this is the highest number of cases since 2019. States with ongoing outbreaks include New Jersey, Georgia, Ohio, Indiana, and Colorado. Unfortunately, there have been deaths linked to the outbreak. This includes two children in Texas and one adult in New Mexico.
The virus is highly transmissible and can spread rapidly. Almost all the cases are among unvaccinated individuals or those whose vaccination status is unknown. Moreover, hospitals have reported at least 56 people hospitalized due to measles this year.
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CDC Recommendations
Due to the rising cases, the CDC has updated its vaccination guidelines. The agency recommends that people traveling to outbreak areas receive additional doses of the measles vaccine. This is known as the MMR vaccine. This vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella.
Who Should Get Extra Doses?
- Infants – babies aged 6 to 11 months should get an early dose of the MMR vaccine. Also, they will need more doses later. One of the doses should be given at 12 to 15 months. Another one should be given between 4 to 6 years old.
- Children over 12 months – Children who have only received one dose of the MMR vaccine should get their second dose earlier. Also, it can be given if it has been at least 28 days since their first dose.
- Adults born between 1957 and 1968 – People born in this timeframe may have had an older version of the MMR vaccine. Also, the CDC recommends they get the current version. This usually involves two doses.
- The CDC also advises reviewing vaccination status for anyone living in or visiting places with ongoing measles transmission. It is important for travelers to follow local vaccination guidance.
The Importance of Getting Vaccinated
The MMR vaccine is effective. The first dose is about 93% operative at averting measles. Two doses increase this effectiveness to 97%. Also, vaccination plays an integral role in controlling outbreaks and protecting the community.
Measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000. This was due to high vaccination rates. However, these rates have degenerated in current years. Moreover, if the outbreak continues, the U.S. risks losing its elimination status.
Outbreak Statistics
The current measles outbreak started in January 2025 in Western Texas. As of now, 541 cases have been recorded in Texas alone. Also, the majority of cases occur in children and teenagers aged 5 to 17. This is followed by younger children under 4. Moreover, health officials have expressed concern about the outbreak spreading further. This is specifically in the urban areas.
The CDC states that 11% of measles patients this year have been hospitalized. These are mostly under 19 years old. About 97% of confirmed national cases involved unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status. Moreover, 3% are from those who received at least one dose of the vaccine.
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What Can Citizens Do?
People should ensure they are fully vaccinated. This is integral, particularly if they plan to travel to areas with outbreaks. Checking vaccination records is important. Also, parents should take their children to get vaccinated according to CDC guidelines. Anyone considering travel to affected areas or living there should consult with local health departments. They should receive the current advice.
