U.S. Faces Measles and Whooping Cough Resurgence as Vaccination Rates Drop

The United States is currently battling its most severe measles outbreak in over three decades, with over 1,200 confirmed cases reported so far in 2025. Alongside the measles surge, health authorities are tracking a sharp rise in whooping cough cases, raising alarm across pediatric hospitals and public health agencies.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed outbreaks in 38 states, marking a significant nationwide health crisis. Public health experts warn that the resurgence is not due to a new virus, but rather declining vaccination rates, which have dropped below the 95 percent threshold needed to maintain herd immunity.

A Dangerous Return of Preventable Diseases

This year’s measles case count has already surpassed the total from 2019, which was previously the worst year in recent history. The epicenter began in parts of West Texas where vaccination coverage is especially low, then quickly spread due to highly contagious transmission among unvaccinated populations.

Measles

Three measles-related deaths have been confirmed (two children and one adult) making it the deadliest measles outbreak since the early 1990s.

Whooping Cough

Meanwhile, whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is making a significant comeback. There have been over 8,400 reported cases across the country this year. Tragically, several infants have died, highlighting the disease’s particularly devastating effects on babies who are too young to be fully immunized.

What’s Behind the Drop in Vaccination?

Several factors have contributed to the recent decline in routine immunization.

First, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted regular pediatric care, causing many children to fall behind on their vaccine schedules. Secondly, vaccine misinformation has flourished online and even among political figures, creating confusion and skepticism among parents.

In recent years, public health funding has been slashed, and several federal grants targeting vaccine hesitancy research have been canceled. These cuts have made it harder for health departments to respond quickly and educate the public effectively.

Religious Exemptions

Another concern is the rise in personal and religious exemptions to vaccine requirements. In some states, these exemptions have become easier to obtain, weakening the safeguards intended to protect school communities from preventable diseases.

Health Impact of Measles and Pertussis

Both diseases pose significant risks.

Measles is among the most contagious viruses known, with a 90 percent transmission rate to unvaccinated individuals exposed to the virus. Complications can include pneumonia, encephalitis, and a rare but fatal brain disorder called subacute sclerosing panencephalitis.

Whooping cough is characterized by violent coughing fits that can lead to vomiting, difficulty breathing, and in infants, seizures, or death. The disease is especially dangerous in children under six months who are not yet fully vaccinated.

How Effective Are the Vaccines?

The good news is that vaccines remain the most effective way to prevent both diseases.

The MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, is 97 percent effective after two doses. It is recommended for all children beginning at 12 months of age, with a second dose between ages four and six.

The DTaP vaccine protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. It is administered in a five-dose series during early childhood, followed by a Tdap booster during adolescence and again in adulthood. Although the acellular pertussis vaccine’s immunity can wane over time, it still offers strong protection, especially when boosters are kept up to date.

What Are Officials Doing About the Outbreak?

The CDC is deploying lab support, vaccine stockpiles, and emergency planning teams to states hardest hit by the outbreaks. In some areas, health departments are implementing quarantine measures for unvaccinated individuals exposed to measles.

Many schools have increased their vaccination outreach, offering on-site immunization clinics and educational materials for parents. However, these efforts are challenged by reduced federal support and persistent public resistance to vaccines.

How You Can Protect Yourself and Your Family

Doctors and health officials urge parents and caregivers to review their family’s vaccination records immediately. Catching up on missed immunizations is safe and essential to protect children and community members alike.

Pediatricians can help determine which vaccines are needed and provide up-to-date guidance on recommended schedules.

Sharing accurate information, listening to concerns with empathy, and using trusted sources can also help combat misinformation among family and friends.

It Takes a Village

Community-level action is equally important. Advocating for stronger immunization policies in schools and opposing non-medical vaccine exemptions are vital steps toward restoring herd immunity nationwide.

Common Questions About Measles, Pertussis, and Vaccines

• How many measles cases have been reported this year?
  As of mid-2025, over 1,288 measles cases have been reported in the U.S., making it the highest annual total since 1992.
• Are the MMR and DTaP vaccines safe for children?
  Yes. These vaccines are rigorously tested for safety and monitored continuously. Side effects are typically mild and temporary, such as soreness or fever.
• Why is whooping cough coming back despite vaccines?
  While the pertussis vaccine is effective, its immunity can decline over time. Missed boosters and pathogen changes have contributed to the recent rise in cases.
• Can adults get or spread measles or whooping cough?
  Absolutely. Adults who are unvaccinated or haven’t had recent boosters can contract and spread both diseases, especially to vulnerable populations like infants.
• What role do schools play during outbreaks?
  Schools are critical to containment. They can host vaccine clinics, distribute educational materials, and in some cases, exclude unvaccinated students during outbreaks to prevent further spread.

Looking Ahead

Health experts emphasize that the current outbreaks are preventable. The science behind vaccines is strong, and their success in eradicating or controlling deadly diseases is well documented.

Rebuilding trust in public health, reinforcing vaccination mandates, and making immunization a national priority again could stop these outbreaks, and prevent the next.

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