A child in northwest Virginia has contracted measles after recently traveling internationally, marking the state’s first case of the highly contagious disease in 2025. Authorities have not disclosed whether the child had been vaccinated against measles. Meanwhile, Louisiana and Missouri have also reported their first measles cases this year, both linked to international travel.
The Virginia Department of Health is actively working to identify individuals who may have been exposed to the virus, particularly at two Kaiser Permanente medical centers where the infected child visited. State epidemiologist Laurie Forlano stresses the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of measles, emphasizing its effectiveness against outbreaks.
In Louisiana, an unvaccinated adult from the southeast region has been isolated after testing positive for measles. Health officials are diligently tracing the infected individual’s contacts to minimize further spread of the virus. Similarly, in Taney County, Missouri, a child associated with recent international travel has been diagnosed with measles, but the Department of Health and Senior Services believes exposure is limited.
These cases emerge during the largest measles outbreak the U.S. has seen in six years. Despite the concerning rise in cases, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has maintained relatively limited communication on the public health threat. The recent spike in measles cases underscores the importance of vaccination and preventive measures to curb the spread of the virus.
Previously, the United States had not experienced a measles death in a decade. However, the resurgence of the virus in recent years highlights the need for continued vigilance and widespread vaccination efforts. Public health officials urge individuals to stay informed about the risks of measles and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their communities.