Measles is spreading across the US – here is what you need to know

image via New Scientist

March 28, 2025, 8:51 PM

• •The US has confirmed more than 480 measles cases so far this year, the highest number since 2019.
• •The outbreak is concentrated in five states: Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Kansas and Ohio.
• •Nearly all of the confirmed cases – 97 per cent – have occurred in people who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown.

The US has confirmed more than 480 measles cases across 19 states, the highest total since an outbreak in 2019 sickened more than 1200 people. Nearly all of the confirmed measles cases – 97 per cent – have occurred in people who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown. The US declared measles eliminated in 2000. However, occasional outbreaks still occur due to waning vaccination rates. Vaccination is the best protection against measles.

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