The United States is facing its worst measles outbreak in decades, with 1,267 cases reported across 38 states so far this year—surpassing triple the total cases in 2024. Experts warn this could soon become the highest annual count since measles was declared eliminated nationwide in 2000.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that 155 individuals have been hospitalized due to the virus in 2025. Tragically, three deaths—two in Texas and one in New Mexico—mark the first U.S. fatalities from measles in over ten years.
Measles Makes a Dangerous Comeback
In 2019, the U.S. experienced 1,274 cases, the highest since elimination. This year is poised to surpass that. The resurgence is attributed largely to declining MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccination rates.
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads through coughing, sneezing, and even lingering air particles. The virus can survive in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the room.
Common symptoms include:
- High fever
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Red, watery eyes
- A rash starting at the hairline and spreading downward
The rash typically appears 3–5 days after the initial symptoms, and the infected person can spread the virus from four days before until four days after the rash appears.
New Jersey Sees Low Case Numbers — But High Risk
Although there is no active community spread in New Jersey at this time, the state has reported three cases in 2025, all linked to an unvaccinated household in February.
The New Jersey Department of Health is urging all residents to ensure their vaccinations are up to date, especially before traveling internationally. Infants aged 6 to 11 months should receive a special consultation with their pediatricians about early MMR vaccination before international trips.
Residents can access their immunization records through the Docket App, or by contacting healthcare providers, schools, military, or obstetricians.
Vaccine Rates Falling, Risk Rising
In New Jersey, 93% of kindergarteners received two or more doses of the MMR vaccine in 2023—slightly above the national average of 92.7%. However, that’s still down from 94.3% the previous school year.
To prevent outbreaks, public health experts stress the need for 95% vaccination coverage to maintain herd immunity. Once vaccination rates fall below this threshold, communities become more vulnerable to disease spread.
Low vaccination rates are especially concerning in some counties. Here’s a look at the percentage of children meeting full vaccination requirements by county:
Lowest compliance:
- Ocean County — 83%
- Cape May — 87%
- Atlantic, Monmouth — 88%
Highest compliance:
- Union, Salem — 94%
- Bergen — 94%
Counties With Lowest Immunization and Highest Exemptions:
- Ocean
- Cape May
- Atlantic
- Monmouth
- Sussex
These areas also report the most religious exemptions—a growing concern. Religious vaccine exemptions more than doubled in the last decade, from 9,115 students in 2014–15 to 24,962 students in 2024–25.
The Decline After COVID-19
A 2025 JAMA study found that 78% of U.S. counties saw a decline in MMR vaccination rates post-pandemic. With fewer children vaccinated, public health officials fear measles could once again become an endemic disease in the United States.
What You Can Do Now
Health experts offer the following guidance:
Ensure MMR vaccinations are current, especially before travel.
Children should receive two doses:
- First dose at 12–15 months
- Second dose at 4–6 years
Infants aged 6–11 months traveling abroad should talk to their doctor about early vaccination.
Check vaccination status using the Docket App or through your doctor’s records.
Avoid crowded indoor areas if you’re unsure of your vaccination status.
Vaccination remains the most powerful tool in preventing measles. A two-dose regimen of the MMR vaccine is 97% effective at preventing the disease.
Bottom Line:
Measles is back in numbers not seen since the late 1990s. With cases rising and vaccine coverage falling, staying protected is more important than ever—especially in areas like New Jersey where immunity gaps are growing.
