Although the United States has officially been absent of measles for almost 20 years, we must be aware of its presence in 2025 and stay prepared. Recent outbreaks in Texas have brought forth concern for the disease. Here is what you need to know about measles, its effects and what to look for.
What is it?
Measles is an airborne and extremely contagious disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), if one person has measles, nine out of 10 people are likely to contract the infection, if not protected. Measles can remain in the air for up to two hours, increasing the likelihood of contact.
The MMR or measles, mumps and rubella vaccine was officially introduced in 1971, according to the Mayo Clinic. The disease was considered officially eliminated in the United States in 2000, per the CDC, meaning the only cases found within the country are contracted abroad and brought into the nation.
On February 28, the CDC reported 164 cases in America. 34% of these cases were under the age of 5 years and 48% 5-19 years or above. Those affected were 95% unvaccinated or unknown, meaning the case investigation is ongoing or the person does not know whether they have or have not been vaccinated.
Why is it Spreading?
Although it is not a seasonal virus, measles spreads in times of high travel, like spring break, which is fast approaching. If planning to travel outside of the country in the coming weeks, the CDC recommends getting vaccinated. If under 12 months of age, it advises receiving the early dose at 6 through 11 months, the second at 12 through 15 and the final at 4 through 6 years. If over 12 months, get the first dose as soon as possible and receive the second 28 days after.
Be mindful when choosing travel destinations as popular places like the UK, Thailand, Vietnam, Japan and the Philippines report high annual cases. The UK Health Security Agency reported 91 measles cases so far in 2025. Last year, there were over 2,900 cases reported, the most since 2012.
Be cautious traveling within the United States as well. The Texas Department of State Health Services has reported 146 measles cases in 2025. Twenty patients have needed hospitalization, with one unvaccinated child dying from the disease – the first measles-related death in 10 years.
If traveling, the CDC suggests monitoring your health for at least 3 weeks post-return.
What do I Look for?
The CDC states that infected persons can spread measles to another four days before a rash develops through the four days after it has appeared on the skin. Initial symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose and conjunctivitis (pink eye). Be on the lookout for tiny white spots, known as Koplik spots, that appear inside the mouth two to three days after initial symptoms begin. These are often followed by a rash that appears three to five days after contraction.
The measles rash is characterized by flat red spots on the face at one’s hairline. These spots typically spread down the neck, arms, body, legs and feet, accompanied with a fever spike.
If you believe you have contracted measles, you can receive a dose of the MMR vaccine within 72 hours of exposure. This may not eliminate the disease but it can lessen the severity of symptoms.
The National Medical Association (NMA) strongly urges all parents to have their children vaccinated. Always reach out to your healthcare provider with questions and concerns, especially if considering the MMR vaccine or booking a trip to an area with high rates of measles.
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