Measles cases are on the rise in the US, with a total of 285 cases reported last year, the most since 2019. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cases have already emerged in 2025, including two cases in metro Atlanta, one case in New Mexico, and an outbreak in West Texas.
Measles is a highly contagious airborne illness that can cause rash, fever, red eyes, and cough. Severe cases can result in blindness, pneumonia, or encephalitis, swelling of the brain. In some cases, the illness can be fatal.
Prior to the introduction of the measles vaccine in 1963, the virus would claim an estimated 2.6 million lives each year worldwide. Despite this, vaccination is still the best protection against measles.
The CDC recommends that children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, with the first dose given between 12 and 15 months and the second around age 4. Adults can also get vaccinated if they didn’t receive the vaccine as a child.
However, low vaccination rates are contributing to the rise in cases. Experts say that misinformation and disinformation campaigns have led to declining vaccination rates, particularly among kindergartners. The US has fallen short of its goal to have at least 95% of children in kindergarten vaccinated for four years in a row.
Checking immunity is also essential. Titer tests can detect the presence of antibodies against measles, but experts say that this is not necessary for those who have received both recommended doses of the MMR vaccine or have had the measles themselves.
For those who are unsure about their vaccination status or have weakened immune systems, titer tests may be necessary. The CDC recommends getting at least one dose of MMR if you were vaccinated with the first version of the measles vaccine or don’t know which type of vaccine you received.
Overall, experts emphasize the importance of vaccination to prevent outbreaks of measles and protect public health.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/02/13/health/measles-vaccine-shot-booster-adults-wellness/index.html