Measles Outbreak in the USA: 483 Cases and WHO Travel Advisory

Rising Measles Cases in the USA: WHO Issues Travel Advisory

As of March 27, 2025, the United States has recorded 483 confirmed measles cases and two fatalities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported three major outbreaks this year, with 93% of cases linked to these outbreaks. In response to the surge in infections, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a travel advisory urging travelers to update their measles vaccinations before visiting the USA.

What is Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious airborne virus that spreads through coughing, sneezing, or even breathing. It can cause severe illness, complications, and, in some cases, death. While anyone can be affected, young children are particularly vulnerable.

Measles Symptoms

High fever
Runny nose
Red eyes
Cough
White spots in the mouth
Skin rash appearing 10-14 days after exposure

Though most cases resolve within 2-3 weeks, severe complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, blindness, or death may occur, especially in unvaccinated individuals.

WHO’s Travel Recommendations for Measles 2025

Before traveling to the USA, WHO strongly advises:
✔️ Checking and updating measles vaccination status
✔️ Consulting local health authorities if exposed to the virus
✔️ Ensuring access to measles vaccines, especially for international travelers

WHO also emphasizes the need for a stockpile of measles-rubella (MR) and MMR vaccines to respond to imported cases.

Measles Outbreak 2025: Affected States in the USA

This year, 20 U.S. states have reported measles cases, including:
🛑 Texas (400 cases, outbreak epicenter)
🔴 Other affected states: Alaska, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York (City & State), Ohio, Pennsylvania, California, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Vermont, and Washington.

CDC’s Warning: Measles Spread Through International Travel

According to the CDC, measles outbreaks in the USA often originate from unvaccinated travelers infected abroad. The CDC states:
🗨️ “Most imported measles cases are brought by unvaccinated individuals who get infected in other countries. Around 2 out of 3 of these travelers are U.S. citizens who spread the virus to unprotected individuals, leading to outbreaks.”

Measles Prevention: The Importance of Vaccination

The best protection against measles is two doses of the MMR vaccine. Vaccination not only safeguards individuals but also helps prevent future outbreaks.