health
February 25, 2026
The Deaths Doctors Never Thought They’d See in the U.S.
For years, the worst outcomes of measles were all but unknown in America. Now they look inevitable.
TL;DR
- Measles is experiencing a resurgence in the U.S., with reported cases approaching 1,000 and expected to exceed this number soon.
- While overall hospitalization and death rates may be lower than in previous years, the increasing number of cases means more individuals are suffering severe complications like pneumonia, respiratory failure, brain swelling (encephalitis), and the rare, fatal neurodegenerative disease SSPE.
- The MMR vaccine is highly effective, with two doses protecting 97% of individuals, and most cases occur in unvaccinated people (93-94%).
- However, declining vaccination rates are a major concern, as measles requires nearly 95% community vaccination to prevent spread.
- Factors contributing to potential increases in cases include waning immunity, genetics, immunocompromising conditions, and suboptimal vaccination schedules.
- The virus can also erase pre-existing immunity, making individuals more vulnerable to other illnesses, and SSPE can manifest years after initial infection, even in vaccinated individuals.
- Public health measures like 'rash phones' and calling ahead to clinics are being used to prevent transmission in healthcare settings.
- Experts anticipate further drops in vaccine uptake, with concerns raised about political influences and skepticism towards vaccines.
- A modeling study suggests that even a small decrease in MMR uptake could lead to millions more measles cases over the next 25 years.
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