As summer travel increases in 2025, the United States faces a significant measles outbreak. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports 1,024 confirmed cases nationwide, accompanied by multiple active outbreaks across 30 states. The rise in cases, severity, and geographic spread presents a serious public health challenge.

Currently, 11 states are experiencing active measles outbreaks: Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Indiana, Michigan, Montana, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee. Texas is the epicenter, accounting for over 700 cases this year alone, according to the Texas Health and Human Services department.

The increase in measles cases coincides with a projected surge in summer travel. The American Automobile Association (AAA) anticipates over 45 million Americans will travel during the Memorial Day holiday weekend, including approximately 3.6 million air travelers. Dr. Richard Besser, former acting CDC director, warns that infectious diseases do not respect borders, thus increasing travel heightens the risk of virus transmission.

The 2025 measles outbreak is notable for both the rising case numbers and its severity. The CDC reports 128 hospitalizations due to measles this year, surpassing the total for all of 2024. Tragically, there have been three confirmed deaths from measles in the U.S. this year. These outcomes highlight the potential for serious complications, particularly among young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

Measles is caused by a highly contagious virus that can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours. This makes transmission in crowded places like airports and public transport especially risky. The CDC emphasizes vaccination as the most effective preventive measure. The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) requires two doses to provide approximately 97% protection against the virus. Dr. Andrew Pekosz, a virologist at Johns Hopkins University, notes that vaccinated individuals face minimal risk, while unvaccinated individuals remain highly susceptible.

A concerning factor is the decline in vaccination coverage. CDC data indicates that during the 2023-2024 school year, 92.7% of kindergarteners received the MMR vaccine, a drop from 95.2% in the 2019-2020 school year. This decline reflects growing vaccine skepticism and misinformation, which could undermine herd immunity. Dr. Besser emphasizes that vaccination is not only a personal decision but also affects the wider community.

Federal and state public health agencies are monitoring outbreaks and responding with vaccination campaigns, educational outreach, and travel advisories. The CDC’s measles webpage offers updated information on outbreaks, vaccination recommendations, and guidance for travelers. State health departments, like Texas Health and Human Services, provide localized alerts and vaccination clinic information.

The CDC and public health experts recommend several precautions. Firstly, ensure full vaccination by confirming that you and your children have received two doses of the MMR vaccine. Secondly, check vaccination records before travel. Thirdly, practice good hygiene by frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals. Fourthly, stay informed about outbreak areas using CDC and state health department resources. Finally, consult healthcare providers if symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash develop.

In conclusion, as summer travel increases, the resurgence of measles poses a significant public health challenge. With over 1,000 confirmed cases spanning 30 states, the CDC underscores vaccination as the cornerstone of prevention. Travelers and communities must heed vaccination advice and remain vigilant. Government agencies continue to provide resources and support, emphasizing that measles prevention is a shared responsibility.