New CDC MMWR Report: Measles Cases Reach 25-Year High

According to CDC’s latest MMWR, the U.S. is currently experiencing its second-highest annual number of measles cases in 25 years, with 800 cases reported as of April 17, 2025. A majority stem from a multistate outbreak in Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, particularly in close-knit communities with low MMR vaccination coverage.

Measles remains highly contagious—infecting up to 90% of unvaccinated close contacts—and can cause severe complications. CDC urges public health departments to collaborate with trusted local messengers to boost culturally competent vaccination efforts, education, and infection control. Increasing MMR coverage is critical to preventing future outbreaks and maintaining population-level immunity in the U.S. Read the full MMWR here.