Measles cases continue to grow, sparking debate among Americans on vaccines

NATIONMeasles cases continue to grow, sparking debate among Americans on vaccinesMarch 14, 2025Updated Sept. 23, 2026, 4:03 p.m. ETThe infectious disease caused by the measles virus is transmitted through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or breathes. It is so contagious, health experts say, 90% of unvaccinated people exposed to it wind up contracting measles.Natalya Maisheva, Getty ImagesAccording to CDC data, one in five unvaccinated people who contract the virus end up hospitalized. Measles is spread through contact with infected nasal or throat secretions, or by breathing in the virus after it's coughed, sneezed or sent into the air by an infected person, according to WHO. The measles virus can remain contagious in the air or on contaminated surfaces for up to two hours.Mumemories, Getty ImagesInstructions for a Measles vaccination is seen outside of the Lubbock Public Health facility on April 9, 2025 in Lubbock, Texas. The city of Lubbock has confirmed a second measles related death amidst an ongoing outbreak which began in late January. As of early April, the Texas Department of State Health Services have confirmed over 500 cases, within 22 counties, ranging from the South Plains toward the Panhandle.Brandon Bell, Getty ImagesA measles advisory…

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