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Measles Outbreaks Escalate Across North America, Surpassing 700 U.S. Cases

Texas remains the epicenter with over 560 confirmed cases, while Ontario reports 925 infections as public health efforts face challenges from vaccine hesitancy and resource limitations.

Health department staff members enter the Andrews County Health Department measles clinic carrying doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, Tuesday, April 8, 2025, in Andrews, Texas. 
A sign outside Southwestern Public Health in St. Thomas, Ont. on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 warns residents to call ahead before visiting a doctor or hospital if they think they have the measles. THE CANADIAN PRESS/ Geoff Robins
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A sign reading "measles testing" is seen as an outbreak in Gaines County, Texas, has raised concerns over its spread to other parts of the state, in Seminole, Texas, U.S., February 25, 2025. REUTERS/Sebastian Rocandio/File Photo

Overview

  • The U.S. has reported over 700 measles cases across 24 states, marking the highest total since 2019, with Texas accounting for the majority of cases.
  • Ontario's outbreak has reached 925 cases since October, including 69 hospitalizations and four intensive care admissions, primarily affecting unvaccinated children.
  • Michigan has confirmed its first measles outbreak since 2019, with seven cases, three of which are in Montcalm County, where vaccination rates are notably low.
  • CDC officials warn that measles cases are likely underreported, particularly in Texas, due to untested recoveries and untreated cases in undervaccinated communities like Gaines County.
  • Public health agencies are facing strained resources and rising vaccine hesitancy, with Utah and Alberta also flagged as high-risk areas due to declining MMR vaccination coverage.