Measles Resurgence: Understanding Risks and Prevention Strategies This Summer

As measles outbreaks continue to spread in the U.S., particularly in Texas, health experts emphasize the importance of vaccination and safety measures for travelers, especially in crowded environments like airports and airplanes.

As summer approaches, concerns about measles are rising due to a significant outbreak in the United States, with over a thousand cases reported in 2025. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has noted that the majority of these cases stem from an ongoing outbreak in Texas, which has resulted in several fatalities.

Measles is renowned for its high infectiousness, leading to fears that travel during peak season could facilitate further spread of the virus. One historical incident, a 2014 outbreak linked to Disneyland, underscores how travelling can incite such outbreaks; it resulted in more than 100 reported cases across the country.

Fortunately, the availability of effective vaccines offers a layer of protection. To safeguard against infection, families planning to travel should ensure all eligible members are vaccinated ahead of their trips, which will help mitigate the risk of transmission whether at home or in unfamiliar locales.

Travelers should remain vigilant, particularly in crowded spaces like airports and airplanes, where the risk of exposure is elevated. Measles can linger in the air and remain infectious for a couple of hours after an infected person has left, presenting an even greater challenge for those in close proximity. Measles symptoms can appear long before the traditional rash, often starting with a runny nose that carries the virus in respiratory secretions.

Those particularly vulnerable, such as individuals who are unvaccinated or immune-compromised, might consider wearing masks while travelling. This not only offers protection against measles but also against other transmissible illnesses that thrive in close quarters. Given the ongoing threat, careful planning and precautions are vital for anyone looking to travel this summer.