So far in 2025 (through Feb. 27), 164 measles cases have been reported in nine states, a 262% increase from the same week in 2024. In St. Louis, 61% of adults surveyed had heard in the last week about rising rates. Most heard it from TV/radio sources (53%) and/or social media (50%).
What’s the current measles situation?
Measles “outbreaks” are defined as 3+ related cases in the same area. The U.S. currently has measles outbreaks in Texas, New Jersey, and New Mexico, accounting for 93% of cases. Most occur in children ages 5-19 (48%) or under 5 (34%); one in 5 is hospitalized and 1 has died.
Who is hearing about it?
In four states surveyed this week, awareness of the outbreaks was highest in Georgia (72%) and lowest in Nebraska (41%). It was higher among White (65%) and Black (62%) adults than Hispanic adults (48%), and among those ages 50+ compared to under age 50 (79% vs. 47%).
How serious is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. One infected person can spread the virus to 90% of unvaccinated people they have contact with. Measles poses serious health risks. Severe cases can involve pneumonia and encephalitis (brain swelling), hospitalization, even death. Common effects are ear infections and diarrhea. Measles can also limit the body’s ability to fight other diseases. Those under age 5 and over 20 are particularly vulnerable to severe measles.
How to protect against measles
Two doses of MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine provide 97% protection against measles; one dose offers 93% protection. The CDC recommends that children receive two doses of MMR vaccine: one at 12–15 months and another at 4–6 years. Experts advise consulting a healthcare provider for questions about vaccination, measles exposure, or immunity checks before travel.
Help St. Louisans stay informed
Please share the resources below to help with measles prevention in St. Louis.
About this week’s report
This week’s alert is based on a survey of 352 adult residents in St. Louis, MO (n = 186), Omaha, NE (n = 84), Atlanta, GA (n = 50), and North Carolina, NC (n=32) conducted from March 1-3, 2025. Explore these data and more at iHeardSTL .
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Have you been hearing about the recent measles outbreaks? Three outbreaks in Texas, New Jersey & New Mexico account for 93% of cases in 2025.
While highly contagious, measles is preventable. The takeaway: vaccinations reduce the spread of measles.
#iHeardSTL #Measles #StayHealthy #GetVaccinated
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