The ongoing measles outbreak that initially emerged in Texas and New Mexico has now extended to multiple states across the country, including Florida, according to the latest update from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
As of March 14, 2025, the CDC has confirmed 301 measles cases in the U.S. this year, marking the highest nationwide total since 2019. Nearly 93% of these cases are linked to three major outbreaks, with Texas and New Mexico remaining the hardest-hit states.
By comparison, 2024 saw only 285 confirmed cases, with 69% linked to outbreaks, across 16 separate incidents reported throughout the year. The rapid increase in 2025 has raised concerns among health officials about declining vaccination rates and the potential for further spread.
Highly Contagious and Potentially Deadly Virus
Measles is among the most contagious airborne diseases in humans. Symptoms typically start with fever, cough, runny nose, and pink eye before progressing to a characteristic rash within two to four days. The virus can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia and brain inflammation, particularly in unvaccinated individuals.
According to the CDC, a single infected person can spread the virus to 12 or more people in communities where less than 95% of the population is vaccinated. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine remains the most effective method of prevention, with two doses providing 97% lifetime immunity against measles.
Breakdown of Measles Cases in 2025
CDC data reveals that the majority of 2025 measles cases have been reported in people aged 5 to 19, followed by children under 5 and adults over 20. Among those infected:
- Most were unvaccinated or declined to provide their vaccination status.
- Only 3% had received one dose of the MMR vaccine.
- Just 2% had received both doses.
Additionally, 50 individuals—roughly 17% of all confirmed cases—have required hospitalization due to severe symptoms. Tragically, two deaths have been reported in Texas and New Mexico, both involving unvaccinated individuals. Prior to this year, the last U.S. measles-related death occurred in 2019.
States Reporting Measles Cases
As of mid-March, 15 states have recorded measles cases in 2025, including:
- Alaska
- California
- Florida
- Georgia
- Kentucky
- Maryland
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York City
- New York State
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- Texas
- Vermont
- Washington
The Texas-New Mexico outbreak alone accounts for at least 284 infections, making up over 90% of this year’s cases.
Measles in Florida: Isolated but Monitored
While Florida’s measles presence remains low, the Florida Department of Health has confirmed one case in Miami-Dade County. However, the CDC is aware of additional cases nationwide, and more confirmed reports are expected in the coming weeks.
CDC Issues Health Advisory Amid Growing Concern
On March 7, 2025, the CDC issued a health advisory alerting public health officials, medical providers, and travelers about the rapid measles outbreak in Texas and New Mexico. Despite measles being declared eradicated in the U.S. in 2000, the virus has made a concerning resurgence, largely attributed to declining vaccination rates between 2009 and 2024.
While the CDC maintains that the overall risk of a nationwide outbreak remains low, it continues to monitor the situation closely. The agency credits the U.S. immunization system, disease surveillance programs, and coordinated outbreak responses for helping contain the spread. However, health experts warn that continued vaccine hesitancy could lead to further outbreaks if left unaddressed .
