Measles Surges to Record Levels in 2025: NJ Cases, Symptoms, Vaccines, and Spread

A Rising Threat: Measles Cases Reach Record Highs in 2025

The measles virus has reached a concerning milestone in 2025, with cases surging to record highs in the United States. This marks the first time since the virus was believed to have been eradicated in the country in 2000 that such a significant outbreak has occurred. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been 1,288 confirmed cases of measles reported across the U.S. by mid-2025.

Dr. William Moss, an epidemiologist at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, described the situation as a "huge red flag" for public health. The rise in cases is particularly alarming given the availability of a highly effective vaccine, which has long been considered one of the most successful tools in preventing infectious diseases.

Outbreaks and Spreading Concerns

Most of the recent cases have been linked to a large outbreak in west Texas, though the virus continues to spread in other states, including New Jersey. On July 3, a confirmed case of measles was identified in a resident of New Jersey, and the state health department is currently investigating the source of the infection.

New Jersey has reported four confirmed cases of measles in 2025. One recent case involved an Ocean County resident who developed a rash on June 27 after being exposed at a local medical facility. Earlier in February, three cases were traced back to a single household in Bergen County. Additional exposure sites include:

• July 3: Immediate Care Medical Walk-In, Brick
• February 9: Englewood Hospital Emergency Department
• June 6: MetLife Stadium (Shakira concert)
• May 12: Newark Liberty International Airport, Terminal B
• April 5: Thomas Edison Service Area (NJT Southbound)
• March 20: Amtrak Northeast Regional Train 175 and Capital Health Medical Center in Hopewell

These locations highlight how easily the virus can spread through travel and public spaces, especially among unvaccinated individuals.

Understanding Measles

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can be prevented through vaccination. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and approximately 90% of people who come into close contact with an infected individual will contract the disease if they are not vaccinated. Before the introduction of the measles vaccine, it was one of the deadliest childhood illnesses, often leading to severe complications.

The symptoms of measles typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and include a high fever (often over 104°F), cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. Small white spots known as Koplik spots may appear inside the mouth within a few days, followed by a red, flat rash that starts on the face and spreads down the body. The rash may also include raised bumps and usually does not cause itching.

Risks and Complications

While most people recover from measles without long-term effects, the disease can be life-threatening. It can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and even death. Children under five years old are particularly vulnerable, with 1 in 20 developing pneumonia and 1 in 1,000 experiencing brain swelling. Pregnant women who contract measles may face premature labor or give birth to low-weight babies.

In rare cases, individuals who have had measles may develop subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a progressive and fatal neurological disorder that can occur seven to ten years after infection.

Vaccination Rates and Protection

Vaccination remains the best defense against measles. In New Jersey, about 93.2% of kindergarten students during the 2023–2024 school year were vaccinated for measles, according to CDC data. Nationally, the rate was slightly lower at 92.7%. However, vaccination rates have declined in recent years, contributing to the resurgence of the virus.

The measles vaccine is highly effective, with two doses offering up to 97% protection. While breakthrough infections can still occur, vaccinated individuals typically experience milder symptoms and are less likely to spread the virus to others.

Measles Cases Across the U.S.

As of July 9, confirmed measles cases have been reported in 39 states and jurisdictions, with a total of 1,285 cases nationwide. Texas has seen the highest number of cases, with 792 confirmed infections, followed by New Mexico and Kansas. These numbers underscore the urgency of increasing vaccination rates and improving public awareness about the risks of measles.

Public health officials continue to urge individuals to check their vaccination status and take precautions, especially in areas where outbreaks are occurring. By staying informed and getting vaccinated, communities can help prevent the spread of this dangerous disease.