Confirmed instances of measles in preschool-aged children reported by health authorities in Tulare County

Confirmed instances of measles in preschool-aged children reported by health authorities in Tulare County

The United States is experiencing a significant increase in measles cases, with over 1,300 confirmed cases by mid-July 2025 – a nearly fivefold increase from 2024[1][2]. This is the highest number since measles was declared eliminated in 2000[2][1].

Across the Americas, a 29-fold increase in cases has been reported compared to the same period in 2024, with 7,132 confirmed cases and 13 deaths as of mid-2025[4].

Causes for the increase include:

• Low vaccination coverage: Around 92-97% of U.S. measles cases in 2025 involved individuals who were unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown[1][2].
• Outbreaks concentrated in specific regions: Large outbreaks have occurred particularly in Texas (with over 760 cases) and other states such as New Mexico and Kansas, facilitating wider transmission[1][2][3].
• Importations and gaps in immunization: The outbreaks originated from importations of the virus both within and outside the Americas, highlighting vulnerabilities where routine immunization coverage is not maintained at high levels[4].
• Age groups most affected: Children under 5 and adolescents 10-19 years old represent the majority of cases, and young children have higher hospitalization rates and risk of severe complications like brain swelling and death[2][3][4].

Symptoms of measles include fever, chills, muscle pains, lethargy, tiredness, coughs, and rashes inside the mouth, as stated by Dr. Monika Multani[5].

Preventive measures recommended are:

• Achieve and sustain 95% immunisation coverage with two doses of MMR vaccine: This threshold is essential to maintain herd immunity and prevent outbreaks[4].
• Strengthen epidemiological surveillance: Early detection of cases allows prompt outbreak response and containment[4].
• Train healthcare workers and community engagement: Ensuring awareness, vaccine acceptance, and quick response to suspected cases helps control spread[4].
• Public education on vaccine safety and importance: Combatting misinformation and encouraging vaccination uptake can reduce susceptible populations[3].

In Tulare County, California, two cases of measles have been confirmed, marking the first cases in the county this year[6]. Isolation is recommended for everyone suffering from measles and who have the infection. If you believe you have been exposed and are experiencing symptoms of measles, doctors recommend calling your health care provider before going in person to prevent potential spread[7].

Approximately 13% of measles cases in 2025 have led to hospitalization[3]. Measles is an airborne and extremely contagious disease, with one infected person potentially spreading it to 18 others[8].

For more information about the virus and its prevention, visit reputable health organisations' websites. Let's work together to protect our communities and maintain the progress made in eliminating measles.

[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2025). Measles Cases and Outbreaks. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/measles/cases-outbreaks.html

[2] World Health Organization (WHO). (2025). Measles. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/health-topics/measles#tab=tab_1

[3] American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). (2025). Measles. Retrieved from https://www.aap.org/en-us/advocacy-and-policy/aap-health-initiatives/Pages/Measles.aspx

[4] Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). (2025). Measles. Retrieved from https://www.paho.org/hq/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=15103:measles&Itemid=15404

[5] Multani, M. (2025). Symptoms of Measles. Interview.

[6] Tulare County Public Health. (2025). Confirmed Measles Cases in Tulare County. Retrieved from https://www.tularecountyhealth.org/news/confirmed-measles-cases-in-tulare-county

[7] CDC. (2025). If You Think You Have Been Exposed to Measles. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/measles/prevention/if-you-have-been-exposed.html

[8] CDC. (2025). How Measles Spreads. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/measles/prevention/index.html

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