U.S. measles cases hit a 30-year high in 2025, CDC reports

The U.S. reported 2,144 confirmed measles cases in 2025, the highest total since 1992, and three deaths were recorded.

U.S. health authorities reported a notable rise in measles cases during 2025 and the trend has drawn attention because of its scale and implications. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced 2,144 confirmed cases for the year, a level not seen since 1992. Officials reported that most infections were among people who were not vaccinated and that several outbreaks accounted for much of the total. The situation has affected regional elimination status decisions already made for Canada and may affect the United States' designation as well. Key facts: - The CDC reported 2,144 confirmed measles cases in the United States in 2025 and recorded three deaths associated with the disease. - Public reporting indicates the majority of infections were among unvaccinated individuals and many cases were linked to outbreaks. - The Pan American Health Organization revoked Canada's measles-free status in November 2025; the U.S. could lose its elimination designation by the end of January if transmission is not interrupted. Summary: The rise in cases reflects renewed measles transmission and has placed national elimination designations under review in North America. Canada’s status was revoked in November 2025 and the U.S. faces a potential review by the end of January; conditions for restoring elimination were previously described by health agencies.