CDC: U.S. measles cases top 1,800 in 2025
CDC data show the U.S. has recorded more than 1,800 measles cases so far in 2025, the most in over 30 years, with infections confirmed in at least 39 states. The largest outbreak was in West Texas with more than 760 cases and two pediatric deaths among unvaccinated children before the state declared it over in August; New Mexico reported one adult death. Health officials cite declining MMR coverage among kindergarteners (about 92.7% in 2023â24 vs. 95.2% in 2019â20), while HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. publicly urged measles vaccination though opposed mandates.
đ Key Facts
- Nationwide measles cases exceed 1,800 across at least 39 states, per CDC weekly surveillance.
- Texas outbreak surpassed 760 cases and included two child deaths among the unvaccinated; New Mexico reported an additional adult death.
- Kindergarten MMR coverage fell to ~92.7% in 2023â24 from 95.2% in 2019â20, below the 95% herd-immunity threshold.
đ Relevant Data
The 2025 measles outbreak in West Texas primarily affected the Mennonite community in Gaines County, a close-knit religious group with high vaccine exemption rates due to beliefs in medical freedom.
Amid West Texas measles outbreak, locals want vaccine choice â Texas Tribune
In Gaines County, Texas, the population is 56.9% Non-Hispanic White, 39.8% Hispanic, and 2.5% Black.
Gaines County, TX | Data USA â Data USA
Among U.S. children born in 2020â2021, MMR vaccination coverage by age 24 months was 90.2% for Non-Hispanic White children, 89.2% for Non-Hispanic Black children, 91.3% for Hispanic children, 87.7% for American Indian or Alaska Native children, 91.8% for Asian children, 88.8% for Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander children, and 88.1% for children of multiple races.
Decline in Vaccination Coverage by Age 24 Months and Vaccination Disparities â United States, 2015â2023 â CDC MMWR