2025 saw more cases of measles since 1991. The final tallies are in and there were 2144 cases of measles reported (the numbers may actually be higher). There were 49 outbreaks in 45 different areas compared to 16 outbreaks the year before. 69% were in children and adolescents. 93% were in patients who were unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown. 240 people were hospitalized with measles and complications and 2 children and 1 adult died from an infection that is preventable.
The measles vaccine (in a combination with mumps and rubella-German measles) is extremely safe and very effective. One dose is 93% effective against measle, and two doses are 97% effective.
Measles is a highly contagious virus. One infected person can infect 12-18 unimmunized people compared to influenza where 1 person can spread the virus to 1.5-2 people or Ebola virus where 1 person can spread the virust to 1.5-2.5 people.
The MMR vaccine at 12 months and the MMRV (with chickenpox) vaccine at 4 years are part of the recommend vaccine schedule. The second dose of the vaccine can be given as soon as 28 days after the first dose if there is a possibility of exposure.
We continue to follow the vaccine schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the NY State Department of Health. Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions.
From all of us at Lewis Pediatrics – Best Wishes for a Happy and Healthy 2026!