When I first wrote about the current measles outbreak in the United States, fourteen states had reported cases. According to a recent news report, that number has almost tripled, and the number of documented cases is the highest since the last century.
This information is current as of the date of original publication or update. It may have changed by the time you read this. I invite you to fact-check what you read here.
This information is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Before making health decisions, discuss with your physician or other qualified healthcare provider to decide what is right for you.
The following report is republished here by permission
Measles reaches highest level in 33 years, now in 39 states
by Tim Henderson, Oklahoma Voice
July 14, 2025
Measles cases have surpassed a recent 2019 record to reach the highest level since 1992, with at least 1,289 cases reported in 39 states.
The milestone comes as health officials are increasingly alarmed by vaccine skepticism gaining a voice in the Trump administration under U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Pediatricians and public health associations filed a federal lawsuit this month challenging a May directive by Kennedy, claiming it “creates barriers” to vaccination for pregnant women and young children.
“Because of his name and profile, Mr. Kennedy has been instrumental in increasing the levels of vaccine hesitancy and skepticism in this country,” the lawsuit states. “The Secretary’s dismantling of the vaccine infrastructure must end.”
CDC Measles Statistics Report
The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported Wednesday that there were 1,288 cases in 38 states, surpassing the 2019 level of 1,274. South Carolina later reported its own first case of the year, an unvaccinated international traveler in the northwestern Upstate area of the state.
Wyoming reported its first measles case since 2010 on July 1, an unvaccinated child in Natrona County.
Other states recently joining the list: North Carolina reported its first case of the year June 24, in a child visiting Forsyth and Guilford counties from another country.
And Oregon reported a case the same day for a person identified only as an unvaccinated international traveler sickened in June after returning to the Portland area.
“We’re here to tell you that measles is now in Oregon, and if you’re not vaccinated, you are susceptible,” said Dr. Paul R. Cieslak, medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at the Oregon Health Authority’s Public Health Division.
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases and can spread rapidly among unvaccinated people.
Utah reported its first case June 20, an unvaccinated person with no recent travel out of state. The state now has nine cases, mostly in Utah County, where Provo is located.
Confirmed cases this year were also reported in these other states: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia and Washington.
Stateline reporter Tim Henderson can be reached at thenderson@stateline.org.
Oklahoma Voice is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oklahoma Voice maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Janelle Stecklein for questions: info@oklahomavoice.com.
More on this blog about measles
What you need to know about Measles
Measles, or rubeola, is a viral infection characterized by a spreading rash, cough, and inflamed eyes. While largely controlled since the vaccine’s introduction in 1963, recent outbreaks reflect setbacks in disease management. Serious complications can occur. Vaccination remains crucial for prevention. Consult healthcare professionals before dismissing vaccines.
Keep readingHow to be Aware and Prepared for Measles
My home state Oklahoma confirmed its first two measles cases on March 11, 2025, linked to outbreaks in neighboring Texas and New Mexico. This is added to outbreaks in at least 12 other states. Viruses don’t recognize state lines or international borders, so everyone needs to be aware and prepared for its arrival.
Keep reading
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