A measles outbreak in the US has sparked a surge in parents seeking out vaccinations for their children, as concerns over potential exposure grow. Pediatricians across the country report an increase in calls and consultations about the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella.
According to Dr. Shannon Fox-Levine of Broward County, Florida, many parents are asking if their child’s vaccinations are up-to-date or if they need additional shots. The outbreak has led to a renewed interest in vaccines, particularly among families with young children who may be at risk of exposure.
Florida’s kindergarten vaccination rate against measles fell below 95% in the 2023-2024 school year, highlighting the need for increased vaccination rates. The US has reported over 480 measles cases this year, mostly in people who were not vaccinated.
Pediatricians are seeing a shift from skepticism to enthusiasm among parents seeking vaccinations. Dr. Christoph Diasio of Southern Pines, North Carolina, notes that families with children under 12 months are requesting early MMR shots, especially for those traveling during spring break.
The surge in vaccine interest comes as concerns about vaccine access and availability grow. Some parents worry that vaccines may become less accessible due to the appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as head of the Department of Health and Human Services.
While the exact impact of this trend on long-term trends of growing vaccine hesitancy is unclear, it highlights a renewed focus on vaccination efforts in the US.
Source: https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2025/03/30/nx-s1-5343997/measles-vaccine-hesitancy-enthusiasm-outbreaks