As summer travel season kicks in, measles outbreaks are on the rise in the US and other countries. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is updating its guidance to travelers, urging everyone to be fully vaccinated against the virus.
According to Emily Smith, an assistant professor at George Washington University, two main issues contribute to the spread of measles: sustained transmission in the US and similar outbreaks in other countries like Indonesia, Thailand, and India. “We’re now facing risk in multiple ways, in multiple places,” she said.
The biggest outbreaks are occurring in Yemen, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and parts of Europe, where low vaccination rates during the pandemic, increased vaccine hesitancy, and changes in school requirements have led to sustained transmission. The US is among the world’s hotspots, with an unprecedented outbreak leading to widespread transmission.
Vaccination is the only way to prevent measles. Adults who were vaccinated as children should be protected, while younger kids who haven’t received a full dose of the vaccine or are unvaccinated need to get vaccinated before traveling. People with weakened immune systems should consult their doctor before travel.
If you’re not sure if you’ve been vaccinated, there’s a test available. If you catch measles or are exposed, contact your doctor immediately. You may also be eligible for post-exposure prophylaxis to support your immune response.
Source: https://wtop.com/health-fitness/2025/06/whats-behind-cdcs-latest-measles-warning-to-international-travelers