The U.S. is experiencing a surge in measles cases, with nearly 400 confirmed cases reported as of 2025, surpassing the total number of cases seen in any year since 2019. This outbreak marks the first major incident of its kind in recent years. Gabriel Benavidez, an epidemiologist at Baylor University in Texas, notes that while measles outbreaks are rare, they often receive significant media attention.
Measles was once a widespread disease in the U.S., affecting around three to four million people annually prior to the introduction of vaccines in 1963. The virus primarily caused a spotty red rash, but adults who received childhood vaccinations may have only faint memories of the condition. However, despite vaccination efforts, the virus is still present in the U.S.
The current outbreak began in Texas and has spread across the nation, with cases reported in multiple states. As measles continues to spread, it’s essential for the public to be aware of the risks associated with this disease and take necessary precautions to prevent its transmission.
Source: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/as-measles-cases-surge-scientists-explain-why-vaccination-is-critical