Measles Cases in the U.S. Approach 1,200 as Ohio Declares End to Three Outbreaks

Recent reports indicate that the number of confirmed measles cases in the United States is nearing 1,200, with health officials in Ohio announcing the conclusion of three outbreaks across two counties. As of this week, fewer than 30 new cases of measles were recorded, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Data released by the CDC reveals a total of 1,197 confirmed measles cases in 2025. The state of Texas, which experienced the largest outbreak in the nation during the late winter and spring months, reported only two additional cases this past week. In contrast, North America remains vigilant as several significant outbreaks continue, particularly in Canada and Mexico.

The most extensive outbreak is currently taking place in Ontario, Canada, which has reported 2,083 cases since mid-October. Alarmingly, the province recorded its first fatality from measles on June 5, involving an infant who suffered from congenital measles and had other underlying health issues. Alberta, Canada, has also been affected, with 868 confirmed cases as of Thursday. Meanwhile, the Mexican state of Chihuahua has reported 2,179 cases, alongside four deaths attributed to the outbreak.

In the U.S., other states experiencing active measles outbreaks include Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, and Oklahoma. Tragically, two elementary school-aged children from West Texas and an unvaccinated adult from New Mexico have died from measles this year.

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. The infection is preventable through vaccination, and measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. as of 2000. However, the recent resurgence can be attributed to declining vaccination rates among children.

In Texas, 744 cases have been reported across 35 counties, with most cases concentrated in West Texas. Of those infected, 96 individuals have required hospitalization. The majority of cases stem from a close-knit, undervaccinated Mennonite community in Gaines County, which alone has reported 411 cases since late January, representing nearly 2% of the county's population.

New Mexico has maintained a total of 81 measles cases, with most occurring in Lea County. Seven individuals have been hospitalized since the outbreak began. Oklahoma currently has 16 confirmed cases, while Arizona has reported four cases linked to international travel.

In Colorado, a total of 14 cases have been documented, including an outbreak connected to a Turkish Airlines flight that landed in Denver in mid-May. Illinois health officials confirmed a growing outbreak that has reached eight cases.

In Kansas, 76 cases have been reported across 11 counties, most of which are connected to one another. Montana has seen 20 cases, with the majority occurring in Gallatin County, marking the first instance of measles in the state in 35 years.

In addition to the aforementioned states, measles cases have also surfaced in Alaska, Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington. Earlier outbreaks in Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania have been declared resolved following six weeks without new cases.

Most U.S. measles cases can be traced back to individuals who contracted the disease while traveling abroad. The CDC has noted an increase in imported cases compared to the previous year, predominantly affecting unvaccinated Americans returning from overseas. In 2019, the U.S. reported 1,274 cases of measles, nearly jeopardizing its elimination status.

The best defense against measles is the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is recommended for children at 12-15 months, with a second dose administered between 4-6 years. Adults concerned about waning immunity can safely receive an additional MMR shot. Individuals with documented measles history or those born before 1957 generally do not require vaccination due to presumed immunity.

Measles transmission is less likely in communities with vaccination rates above 95%, a threshold termed 'herd immunity.' However, vaccination rates have declined due to various factors since the pandemic, leading to an increase in exemptions based on personal or religious beliefs.

Symptoms of measles typically include high fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, and a distinctive rash that spreads throughout the body. While most children recover, complications such as pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling, and even death can occur.

Currently, no specific treatment exists for measles. Medical professionals focus on alleviating symptoms, preventing complications, and ensuring patient comfort.