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University of Nebraska Medical Center

Measles

Explore this page to learn more about measles, updates, resources, and recent news. 

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About Measles

According to the World Health Organization, measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads easily through respiratory droplets when an infected individual breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Measles can lead to severe health complications and death, primarily affecting children. The virus first infects the respiratory tract and subsequently disseminates throughout the body. Common symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and a widespread rash.
Vaccination remains the most effective method for preventing measles infection and its transmission. The measles vaccine is safe and enhances the body's ability to combat the virus. Prior to the introduction of the measles vaccine in 1963, significant epidemics occurred every two to three years, resulting in approximately 2.6 million deaths annually. In 2021 alone, an estimated 128,000 individuals succumbed to measles, predominantly children under five years of age, despite the availability of a safe and cost-effective vaccine. 
 

Explore

  • As of May 29, 2025, a total of 1,088 confirmed* measles cases were reported by 33 jurisdictions: Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, New York State, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington.

    There have been 14 outbreaks** reported in 2025, and 90% of confirmed cases (977 of 1,088) are outbreak-associated. For comparison, 16 outbreaks were reported during 2024 and 69% of cases (198 of 285) were outbreak-associated.

     

    Learn more by clicking here. 

 

The GCHS, in collaboration with the Region VII Disaster Health Response Ecosystem (R7DHRE) conducts biweekly meetings with local and state public health and healthcare representatives. These meetings focus on reviewing and discussing recent developments related to current infectious disease challenges. Dr. James V. Lawler, MD, MPH, FIDSA, presents comprehensive updates on data and advancements at local, state, national, and international levels. Register here. 

Recent Recordings | Archived Recordings