Measles, a highly infectious virus, is once again making headlines due to a significant outbreak in the United States. With over 1,000 cases reported in 2025, mostly in Texas, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is urging travelers to take precautions.
The good news is that an effective vaccine exists, and making sure all eligible family members are fully vaccinated before travel can significantly reduce the risk of infection. However, it’s essential to understand how measles spreads and its most vulnerable periods.
Measles can survive on surfaces for hours and remains infectious in the air for up to two hours. The virus can also be present in a person’s breath, coughs, and sneezes before the appearance of the signature rash. Therefore, wearing masks in crowded areas is recommended, especially for those at high risk – unvaccinated and immunocompromised individuals.
Good hand washing practices are also crucial while traveling to prevent more than just measles infections. When considering domestic or international travel, be aware that Texas and nearby states have been identified as high-risk areas. Internationally, measles continues to affect many countries, including India, Romania, and parts of Europe.
To ensure immunity, consult with your doctor about getting vaccinated at least two weeks before travel. Adults can determine their immunity status through a blood test or by having had the MMR vaccine. Children who are traveling with family members should receive early vaccination doses to meet the standard three-dose schedule.
If you’ve been exposed to measles while traveling, notify local health authorities immediately. Prompt action may be taken to protect high-risk individuals, and it’s essential to inform your doctor about recent travel risks.
Measles is a serious disease that still claims over 100,000 lives worldwide each year. It can cause severe discomfort, permanent neurological damage, or delayed degenerative diseases. As Dr. Adam Ratner notes, “We brought this on ourselves” by allowing measles to resurface despite the availability of effective vaccines. By taking precautions and being informed, we can continue to prevent measles outbreaks and protect our communities.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/01/travel/measles-traveling.html