As of March 6, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed 222 cases of measles across 12 jurisdictions in the United States, stemming from three separate outbreaks. By March 12, that number had increased to over 250. The first fatality occurred on Feb. 27 when a six-year-old in Texas died, marking the first measles-related death in the United States in nearly a decade.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. It spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. Infants are particularly susceptible because they typically do not receive their first dose of the vaccine until they are 12 to 15 months old.
CDC data shows that 76 (34%) of the 2025 measles cases involve children under five years old, and 99 (45%) involve individuals aged 5-16 years. Approximately 94% of these cases occurred in individuals who were either unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown.
While measles cases have been reported across 12 states, Texas has accounted for the majority. As of March 11, the Texas Department of State Health Services reported more than 223 cases, with 156 located in Gaines County. Of those, 29 resulted in hospitalization. New Mexico followed with around 30 cases and one death, according to Johns Hopkins as of March 7.
Experts attribute the resurgence of measles to declining vaccination rates among children and adults. Herd immunity, which occurs when at least 95% of a community is vaccinated, is considered the most effective way to prevent outbreaks. However, Texas recorded a vaccination rate of 94.3% for the 2023-2024 school year, falling below the threshold. Other states, like Idaho, show even lower rates—79.6%—yet report fewer cases. This discrepancy highlights the complexity of outbreak patterns.
The outbreak originated in the Mennonite community of West Texas, where low vaccination rates and home or private education may have contributed to the spread. The community’s isolation and limited access to public health resources could have exacerbated the situation.
ULM Health Studies professor Jessica Dolecheck, Ph.D., emphasized the importance of comprehensive public health strategies. “As a professor in the Health Studies program, it’s clear that measles outbreaks serve as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates,” Dolecheck said. “While substantial progress has been made in controlling measles, gaps in immunization coverage continue to pose a risk, leading to preventable outbreaks and tragic loss of life. Continued public health efforts and vaccination education are crucial in preventing future outbreaks.”
Health officials continue to encourage vaccination and education campaigns to curb the spread of measles. Parents are urged to ensure their children receive timely vaccinations, and communities are advised to strengthen public health initiatives to safeguard against future outbreaks.
