The United States officially surpassed 1,000 confirmed measles cases on Friday, marking the largest national outbreak in five years and raising alarm among public health officials. Texas remains the epicenter, accounting for over 700 cases, while outbreaks have also been reported in at least 20 other states.
Texas health officials reported 709 cases statewide, primarily in West Texas where an undervaccinated Mennonite community in Gaines County accounts for more than half. The outbreak has resulted in two child deaths—an 8-year-old in April and a 6-year-old in February—neither of whom were vaccinated or had underlying conditions. Hospitalizations have risen to 92 across 29 counties, though new cases appear to be slowing.
New Mexico added four more cases Friday for a total of 71, with most concentrated in Lea County. An unvaccinated adult died there in March without seeking medical care. Oklahoma, Kansas, Indiana, Michigan, Montana, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee all have active outbreaks, defined by the CDC as three or more connected cases. Ohio and Kansas have been hit particularly hard, with 34 and 48 cases, respectively.
This surge coincides with major outbreaks in Canada’s Ontario province (1,440 cases) and the Mexican state of Chihuahua (1,041 cases), all stemming from the same measles strain. Health experts warn that declining childhood vaccination rates and increased global travel are fueling domestic outbreaks.
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses, transmitted through airborne droplets. The disease can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling, and death—particularly among unvaccinated children. The MMR vaccine remains the most effective preventive measure, with two doses offering near-total protection.
The CDC urges families to ensure children are fully vaccinated and warns that areas with less than 95% vaccine coverage are especially vulnerable. Childhood MMR vaccination rates have dropped nationwide since the COVID-19 pandemic, and more parents are seeking vaccine exemptions.
