Measles, once declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, is surging again, with over 600 cases reported nationwide so far in 2025—more than double last year’s total. Texas is the epicenter, with more than 480 cases and two recent child deaths, both unvaccinated. The outbreak, largely driven by unvaccinated populations, especially within vaccine-resistant religious communities, has spread to neighboring states. Experts warn that vaccination is the most effective prevention; the MMR vaccine is 97% effective with two doses, and herd immunity requires 95% coverage. Health officials link the resurgence to growing anti-vaccine sentiment. The latest deaths mark the first pediatric measles fatalities in a decade. In some cases, vitamin A has been misused as a treatment, leading to toxicity in hospitalized children. Public health authorities emphasize that measles is highly contagious and can cause severe complications, including pneumonia and brain swelling, particularly among the unvaccinated.
08-04-2025