Key Points:
- U.S. measles cases topped 2,000 in 2025, the highest in 30+ years, threatening elimination status.
- Most infections are among unvaccinated individuals, especially children.
- Vaccination is crucial, as misinformation and low coverage fuel outbreaks.
U.S. measles cases surpassed 2,000 in 2025, the highest level in more than 30 years, as prolonged outbreaks driven largely by unvaccinated populations raise the risk of losing national elimination status, the CDC said.
The United States has recorded 2,012 U.S. measles cases nationwide as of Dec. 23, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The total marks the first time cases have crossed 2,000 since the early 1990s, underscoring a sharp resurgence of a vaccine-preventable disease.
Health officials say the increase is driven by sustained outbreaks across multiple states and declining vaccination coverage in some communities. Measles is among the most contagious viruses known and spreads through airborne transmission, making rapid containment difficult once outbreaks begin.
Outbreaks Drive Historic Surge in Cases
The CDC reports that 1,988 of the U.S. measles cases were spread across forty-four jurisdictions, with outbreaks accounting for most infections. About eighty-seven percent of all cases stemmed from fifty distinct outbreaks reported during the year.
Nearly ninety-three percent of infected individuals were either unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status, the agency said. Children and adolescents make up a large share of those affected, reflecting gaps in routine immunization.
Texas reported the highest number of cases, with 803 confirmed infections. Arizona followed with 187 cases, while North Carolina reported 156. Several other states have logged smaller but persistent outbreaks that continue to spread across county lines.
The CDC has repeatedly emphasized that two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine are highly effective. The agency says measles vaccination prevents infection in about ninety-seven percent of people who receive the full series.
Elimination Status at Risk by 2026
The surge places the United States at risk of losing its measles elimination status, a designation achieved in 2000. The CDC defines elimination as the absence of continuous disease transmission for at least twelve months.
“This year’s sustained outbreaks could jeopardize elimination status by early 2026,” the CDC said, noting that prolonged chains of transmission are the primary concern. Losing the designation would mark a major setback for public health after decades of progress.
Only 285 confirmed U.S. measles cases were reported nationwide in 2024, highlighting the scale of the increase in 2025. Public health experts say the rapid rise reflects both delayed detection and lower immunization rates in some areas.
Federal officials continue to urge vaccination as the most effective tool to stop transmission. “Measles spreads quickly, but it is preventable,” the CDC said in guidance accompanying the latest data.
Vaccine Misinformation Adds to Public Health Challenge
The outbreaks come amid public debate over vaccine safety and effectiveness. Health officials say misinformation has contributed to vaccine hesitancy, complicating efforts to control the spread of measles.
The CDC has pushed back against claims that downplay the risks of measles infection, warning that complications can include pneumonia, brain swelling and death, particularly among young children and immunocompromised adults.
Public health agencies are working with state and local officials to increase vaccination outreach, expand testing and isolate cases quickly. Officials say sustained community engagement is critical to preventing further spread in 2026.
As the year ends, the CDC warns that without higher vaccination coverage and faster outbreak response, U.S. measles cases could continue into next year, placing elimination status further out of reach.
