With spring break approaching and families preparing for trips to other states, parents and children need to be cautious, as the number of measles cases in the United States has grown significantly. So far in 2025, 164 cases have been reported, including a major outbreak in Texas that has resulted in a child’s death. This is particularly concerning given that the last measles-related death occurred around 2015, and just 15 years before that, the disease had been classified as “eradicated” in the U.S.
How Did We Get Here?
Thanks to widespread vaccination programs, measles was largely eliminated. However, declining vaccination rates in recent years have led to a resurgence. Texas, for example, has some of the highest vaccine exemption rates in the U.S., particularly in Gaines County, where nearly 14% of school-age children have opted out of at least one required vaccine. Similar trends are occurring in other states facing outbreaks. These gaps in immunization have contributed to the current measles outbreaks in the U.S.
The Reality of Measles
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known. If ten unvaccinated children are exposed to someone infected, nine will contract the disease. It spreads through airborne droplets, making it extremely difficult to contain once an outbreak starts.
While some infected individuals may recover without complications, measles can cause severe, long-lasting health issues. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that about 1 in 5 unvaccinated people who contract measles require hospitalization, and about 1 in 1,000 children develop brain swelling, which can lead to permanent brain damage or death.
The Scars Left by Measles
Measles symptoms progress over two to three weeks. The illness begins with a cough or runny nose, followed by fever and a distinctive red rash. It doesn’t stop there, though. In some cases, secondary bacterial infections develop, leading to severe skin complications, open wounds, and long-term scarring.
Beyond its skin-related effects, measles can also cause lasting damage to internal organs. Pneumonia is a common complication, and in rare cases, the virus attacks the brain, leading to subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a fatal neurological disorder that develops years after infection.
Why Vaccination Is a Must
The measles vaccine, administered as part of the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine, is one of the safest and most effective vaccines available. Since its development in 1971, it has prevented tens of millions of deaths globally. Before the vaccine, measles caused 2.6 million deaths annually.
To be fully vaccinated, young children require two doses:
● First dose: Given at 12–15 months, providing immunity to about 85% of children.
● Second dose: Given at 4–6 years, increasing protection to 95–98%.
● Lifelong protection: Once fully vaccinated, individuals remain protected for life.
What Parents Need to Do
If you and your family are planning to travel during spring break, there are a couple of things to keep in mind:
● Check your child’s immunization records to ensure they have received both doses of the MMR vaccine.
● If your child has not been vaccinated, schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider immediately.
● If you’re traveling, be extra cautious. Measles outbreaks have been reported in Texas, New Mexico, and California.
Key Takeaways
Measles is not a harmless childhood disease. It can cause lifelong consequences, including permanent scarring, brain damage, and death. The good news is that it is entirely preventable with vaccination. With the recent rise in cases, it is important to stay informed about how these diseases spread and what you can do to prevent outbreaks in your household and community.
Sources:
CDC: Measles Cases and Outbreaks
CDC: Clinical Overview of Measles
Texas Health and Human Services: Annual Reports of Immunization Status
