2025 Measles Blog

2025 Measles Outbreaks: Resources and Updates for Local Health Departments

Mar 04, 2025 | Emma James, Beth Hess, Irene Halferty

NACCHO is closely monitoring news and information related to ongoing and emergent measles outbreaks and is ready to assist local health departments with response and coordination efforts. To follow are recent updates and resources regarding ongoing measles outbreaks, which will be updated on an as-needed basis. For the most up-to-date information, please join our Emerging Public Health Threats Virtual Communities forum.

If your health department needs support or has questions, please contact NACCHO’s Preparedness Team at [email protected].

Recent Updates:

March 28: According to CDC data, a total of 483 confirmed measles cases were reported by 20 jurisdictions: Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, New York State, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, and Washington. Find more real-time updates of measles cases reported by:

March 21: Katherine Wells, DrPH, Director of Lubbock Public Health in Texas, joined NACCHO’s Podcast from Washington to discuss the recent measles outbreak in the United States and initiatives they have implemented to slow the spread in Texas. 

March 21: According to CDC data, a total of 378 confirmed measles cases were reported by 18 jurisdictions: Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, New York State, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Vermont, and Washington. There have been three outbreaks (defined as three or more related cases) reported in 2025, and 90% of confirmed cases (341 of 378) are outbreak-associated. Find more real-time updates of measles cases reported by:

March 14: According to CDC data, a total of 301 confirmed measles cases were reported by 15 jurisdictions: Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, New York State, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Vermont, and Washington. Find more real-time updates of measles cases reported by:

March 7: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Health Alert Network (HAN) Health Advisory to notify clinicians, public health officials, and potential travelers about a measles outbreak in Texas and New Mexico and offer guidance for prevention and monitoring. As of March 7, Texas and New Mexico have reported 208 confirmed cases associated with this outbreak (198 in Texas and 10 in New Mexico). As a part of this outbreak, two deaths have been reported: one in Texas and one in New Mexico. More cases are expected as this outbreak continues to expand rapidly.

With spring and summer travel season approaching in the United States, CDC emphasizes the important role that clinicians and public health officials play in preventing the spread of measles.

Click here to read the report.

March 3: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary issues statement: Measles Outbreak is Call to Action for All of Us

February 27: According to CDC data, a total of 164 measles cases were reported by 9 jurisdictions: Alaska, California, Georgia, Kentucky, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, Rhode Island, and Texas. Find more real-time updates of measles cases reported by:

February 26: The Texas Department of State Health Services reported the first death from measles in the ongoing outbreak in the South Plains and Panhandle regions. Most of the cases are in children ages 5 to 17 that are unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status. There is another unrelated measles outbreak in New Mexico
 

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccination

The MMR vaccine is scientifically proven to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella. Given how contagious measles is, its evidenced potential for serious complications, and the recent outbreak developments, vaccination is a crucial and effective way protect yourself and your community from measles outbreaks.

The current recommendation for the MMR vaccine is two doses for children, typically administered around 12-15 months and 4-6 years of age. This vaccination schedule helps ensure optimal protection against measles, mumps, and rubella and contributes to community immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks in the community. Individuals who are uncertain about their immunity can consult with a healthcare provider to determine if they have antibodies and to receive a booster dose.

Resources and Toolkits

Baby and Breastfeeding Resources: 

NACCHO Resources

Communicating and Promoting Vaccination

Local Health Departments Promoting Equitable Vaccine Uptake

Local Health Departments Partnering for Vaccination

Local Health Departments Addressing Vaccine Confidence and Hesitancy


About Emma James

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About Beth Hess

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About Irene Halferty

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