
Measles Outbreaks Spread Across U.S., with New Cases Linked to International Travel
Cities sound the alarm bells
Vaccines shield from harm
Measles outbreaks continue to spread across the United States, with new cases linked to international travel reported in multiple states [1][2][8]. As of May 30, 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed 1,088 measles cases across 33 jurisdictions this year, marking the highest number of cases in five years [10][12].
In Colorado, health officials have reported three new measles cases connected to a Turkish Airlines flight that landed in Denver on May 13 [1][2]. The cases include an out-of-state traveler who was infectious during the flight, a vaccinated adult, and an unvaccinated child under five years old [1][3]. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has issued alerts for potential exposure locations, including Denver International Airport [2][3].
Texas remains the epicenter of the largest outbreak, with 738 confirmed cases as of May 30, an increase of nine cases since the previous update [9][10]. The outbreak, which began in January in Gaines County, has resulted in two deaths of unvaccinated school-age children [9]. Health officials are urging residents to ensure their vaccinations are up to date.
'The spread of the contagious airborne infection, however, has shown signs of slowing down over the past two weeks,' according to a Reuters report [10].
Other regions reporting new cases or exposure warnings include:
The San Francisco Bay Area, where a resident potentially exposed others to measles at three locations after returning from international travel [18][19]Calgary, Alberta, where health officials warned of possible exposure at a cinema, hotel, and IKEA store [13][14]Winnipeg, Manitoba, with new exposure sites including a church and medical facilities [25][26]Waterloo, Ontario, where a case was confirmed at Conestoga College's Doon Campus [30][31]The resurgence of measles has sparked discussions about vaccination policies and public health measures. Experts emphasize the importance of immunization in preventing the spread of this highly contagious disease.
'Anyone who attended these locations at these times, who was born in or after 1970 and has fewer than two documented doses of measles-containing vaccine, may be at risk for developing measles. They should monitor for symptoms of measles and are strongly encouraged to review their immunization records,' stated Alberta Health Services in a public advisory [16].
As outbreaks continue to evolve, health authorities across North America are working to contain the spread and urging the public to stay vigilant and ensure their vaccinations are current.