Measles: A Renewed Threat

Course overview

Measles is one of the most contagious viral infections. It is spread via airborne droplets or by direct inoculation into the nose, mouth, or eyes after touching an infected surface. Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000 due to a very high vaccination rate with the safe and effective measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a nationwide alert in April 2024. Measles activity in the US and globally is increasing, while MMR vaccination rates have decreased. The drop was due in part to the healthcare focus on the COVID-19 pandemic and rising vaccine hesitancy. As of July 2026, 2,231 confirmed measles cases had been reported in the United States. This places the public at high risk for a measles outbreak. Pharmacy teams are well-positioned to educate the public regarding prevention strategies, address vaccine hesitancy, and provide vaccination recommendations.