A measles outbreak in the US, concentrated among unvaccinated individuals, has surpassed 1,270 cases—the highest since 1992. Three unvaccinated individuals, including two children, have died. Vaccination rates have fallen below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity, particularly in insular communities like West Texas. Experts attribute the surge to vaccine hesitancy and skepticism, fueled by misinformation. Despite mandatory vaccination for school attendance, exemptions based on moral or religious reasons are rising, jeopardizing the nation's measles elimination status.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.