Measles Was ‘Eliminated’ in the U.S. in 2000. The Current Outbreak May Change That

Measles, officially eliminated in the U.S. in 2000 due to widespread MMR vaccination, is resurging across multiple states—threatening the country’s elimination status. Recent outbreaks, including the death of an unvaccinated child in Texas, have sparked concern among public health experts. The disease, often reintroduced by unvaccinated travelers, spreads rapidly in under-immunized communities.

Experts stress that maintaining high vaccination coverage is critical to preventing endemic transmission. Losing elimination status would mark a significant public health setback, highlighting the importance of both domestic immunization efforts and global cooperation. The MMR vaccine remains our most effective defense, providing up to 97% protection with two doses. Read more from Scientific American here.