After being declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, measles is resurging in 2025, with outbreaks reported in Texas, New Mexico, Kansas, and Oklahoma. As of mid-May, over 860 cases have been confirmed, including three deaths—two children in Texas and an adult in New Mexico. This marks the first measles-related fatalities in the U.S. since 2015 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Measles Cases and Outbreaks,” May 2025).
Why Is Measles Back?
The primary driver of this resurgence is declining vaccination rates. In certain communities, such as a Mennonite population in Gaines County, Texas, vaccine exemption rates have reached nearly 14 percent (Texas Department of State Health Services, “Immunization Status Reports,” Apr 2025). This is well below the 95 percent immunization threshold needed to prevent outbreaks. The COVID-19 pandemic further disrupted routine childhood vaccinations, leaving more children vulnerable to preventable diseases like measles (World Health Organization, “Immunization Coverage,” Apr 18, 2025).
The Cost of Misinformation
Misinformation has made the problem worse. Some parents are turning to unproven remedies like vitamin A supplements or steroids instead of vaccinating their children. This has led to cases of vitamin A toxicity in children treated for measles in Texas hospitals (American Academy of Pediatrics, “Vitamin A Toxicity Linked to Measles Home Remedies,” Apr 30, 2025). Some families have even hosted “measles parties” to intentionally expose children to the virus, a practice strongly discouraged by health officials (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Risks of Intentional Exposure to Measles,” May 2025).
A Preventable Tragedy
Measles is highly contagious but entirely preventable through the MMR vaccine. The recent deaths and hospitalizations show why it’s critical to keep vaccination rates high. Health experts say the best protection against measles is to make sure children receive their shots on schedule (Peters H, “MMR Vaccine Efficacy in U.S. Populations,” JAMA Pediatrics, Apr 10, 2025; Vol 179: pp. 102–107).
What You Can Do
Make sure you and your family are up to date on all vaccinations, especially the MMR vaccine. If you’re not sure, your doctor can check your records or recommend a booster. Don’t rely on social media or fringe sources—stick with trusted health agencies for advice. Vaccines are one of the most effective tools we have to prevent serious illness and protect our communities.