A Rutgers Health expert discusses the myths and realities of the measles outbreak and the vaccine gap that is putting Americans at risk. The rate of measles outbreaks in the United States is rising: Last year, there were 16 outbreaks, up from four in 2023. So far in 2025, there have been three outbreaks of measles with cases reported in 12 states and confirmed deaths of an unvaccinated child and unvaccinated adult. With kindergarten vaccination rates declining nationwide, more communities may be at risk for contracting a disease that was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000.
Measles, a highly contagious respiratory infection – up to nine out of 10 people who come into contact with the disease contract it – that causes serious complications, has been grabbing headlines with outbreaks in Texas, New Mexico and Bergen County in New Jersey. Most of the 222 cases are among children who hadn’t received the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. Margaret Quinn, a clinical professor specializing in pediatrics at the Rutgers School of Nursing, discusses the myths and facts about measles and its vaccine and how to protect yourself and your family. To read the full story.