Deadliest Measles Outbreak In 30 Years Sweeps Through USA And Canada: What's Causing The Spread

The measles outbreak in the USA and Canada in 2025 has been recorded as one of the deadliest in the last 30 years.

So far, the US has recorded over 1,000 confirmed measles cases and three deaths, according to state and local data released on Friday.

In Canada, a total of 1,506 measles cases have been reported, 1,299 confirmed and 207 probable, with zero rubella cases, according to Health Canada.

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Texas is grappling with growing fears over the measles outbreak

According to multiple reports, out of a total of 1,012 measles cases recorded in the US, Texas alone has reported 1,001 confirmed cases, accounting for nearly 70% of the national measles resurgence.

How dangerous is measles?

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness spread through airborne droplets.

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine (JHMI), on average, measles kills between one and three of every 1,000 infected children.

Also known as rubeola, measles can lead to serious complications, including ear infections, pneumonia, and encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain that can result in permanent neurological damage or even death.

What's causing the spread of measles in the USA and Canada?

According to a statement released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Measles outbreaks are occurring globally, particularly in Asia, which means that there is an increased likelihood of cases among unvaccinated travelers returning to the U.S., which we saw in the February 19 case of an Orange County, California resident returning from Asia.”

To combat the growing spread of measles, the CDC emphasizes that vaccination remains the most effective defense.

“Measles does not have a specific antiviral treatment. Supportive care, including vitamin A administration under the direction of a physician, may be appropriate,” the CDC states.

Early to later symptoms of measles

Texas Health officials outline the symptoms most commonly experienced by individuals affected by the viral illness:

• Initial stage of measels symptoms may include, moderate fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and sore throat.
• Signs of the later stage include blue-white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots), red-brown rash that starts at the hairline and spreads down the body, and high fever (can go over 104°F).