Measles hotspots 2025: The top 10 US areas you need to know

Measles, a highly contagious and potentially deadly airborne virus, is making a troubling comeback in the United States. As of June 5, 2025, the US CDC confirmed 1,168 measles cases across 34 jurisdictions, including three deaths.

In the last 24 hours, more cases have been reported. Arizona has reported its first measles cases of 2025—four unvaccinated individuals. Colorado confirmed two more cases: a child under five who had one MMR dose and had traveled to Ontario, and an unvaccinated adult linked to Denver airport’s ongoing cluster. Texas added two new cases, bringing its total to 744. Kansas also reported one more case, raising its outbreak count to 70 and statewide total to 72.

This resurgence is alarming, especially given that measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. back in 2000—a status that meant the disease no longer spread locally and only appeared when brought in from abroad.


Before the introduction of the measles vaccine, the virus hospitalized around 48,000 people annually and caused between 400–500 deaths each year in the U.S. The recent spike serves as a stark reminder of the virus’s severity and the importance of vaccination.

Texas is currently experiencing the nation’s most severe outbreak. Less than 1% of cases are actively infectious, with rash onset within the past week. Tragically, two unvaccinated school-aged children have died. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has identified Dawson, Gaines, Lamar, and Lubbock counties as hotspots with ongoing transmission.

New Mexico’s outbreak is closely linked to Texas, particularly impacting Lea, Eddy, Doña Ana, and Chaves counties. There has been one confirmed death in Lea County, and a significant number (37) of the cases in adults aged 18 and above have been reported dead—though this figure likely includes broader mortality data under investigation.

Kansas has reported a major toll in the youngest age group: 24 of the cases resulting in death were in children aged 0–4 years. Fortunately, there are currently no active exposure locations as of June 9.

With 34 confirmed cases across four counties, North Dakota holds the highest per capita measles rate in the U.S.—4.3 cases per 100,000 residents, according to the state’s public health association. No deaths have been reported.

Ohio has recorded at least 34 cases since January, with one hospitalization. No deaths were reported, and state health officials declared the outbreak "closed" on June 5, as no new cases have emerged since April.

Montana’s outbreak spans Flathead, Yellowstone, Hill, and Gallatin counties, with 12 of the 20 cases centered in Gallatin. Two hospitalizations have been reported, but no fatalities.

Oklahoma has seen 19 cases, 17 of which were in unvaccinated individuals. The median age is 21, suggesting the outbreak has largely affected young adults. No deaths have been reported.

Michigan's cases are spread across seven counties: Allegan, Oakland, Macomb, Kent, Montcalm, Ingham, and Marquette. The state has not reported any deaths or hospitalizations linked to the outbreak.

Illinois has confirmed 10 measles cases as of June 10. Several cases have occurred in migrant shelters, while two cases were linked to Chicago Public Schools.

All eight confirmed cases in Indiana were reported in Allen County, located in the northeast of the state. With no new cases since April 21, county health officials declared the outbreak officially over.