Why Measles Vaccination Is More Important Than Ever

Measles, a highly contagious and potentially life-threatening disease, is making a dangerous comeback in the United States. With outbreaks already reported in Texas, Georgia, New Mexico, Alaska, Rhode Island, and New York City in 2025, and 285 cases last year, public health experts are warning that low vaccination rates are putting children at serious risk, including here in New Hampshire.

Why Measles Is a Serious Threat to Our Children

Measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world. If an infected person enters a room, the virus can linger in the air for up to two hours, exposing anyone who is not vaccinated. Nine out of ten unvaccinated individuals who come in contact with the virus will become infected.

For young children, measles is not simply a rash and fever—it can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), blindness, and even death. Infants under 12 months old, who are too young to receive the vaccine, are among the most at risk. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 107,500 people died from measles in 2023, many of them children.

New Hampshire has historically had high childhood vaccination rates, but the CDC reports a record number of U.S. kindergarteners were exempted from required vaccinations last year, leaving more than 125,000 children unprotected. As seen in West Texas—where a measles outbreak is spreading rapidly in a county with low vaccination rates—when too many children go unvaccinated, outbreaks can happen quickly.

How the MMR Vaccine Protects Our Kids

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe, effective, and essential in preventing measles. The CDC recommends:

• Children receive two doses—first at 12-15 months and the second at 4-6 years.

• Teens and adults who are not immune should get vaccinated.

• Anyone traveling abroad should ensure they are up to date on their vaccines, as measles is still common in many countries.

One dose of the MMR vaccine is 93% effective, and two doses provide 97% protection. Yet low vaccination rates have weakened herd immunity, putting infants, immunocompromised individuals, and those who cannot receive the vaccine at the highest risk.

What New Hampshire Can Do

Measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, but with declining vaccination rates, outbreaks could become more common—including in New Hampshire schools and childcare centers. The state must continue prioritizing strong immunization programs and education about vaccine safety to prevent the kind of outbreaks we’re seeing elsewhere.

Parents and caregivers in New Hampshire should check their child’s vaccination records and ensure they are up to date before starting daycare or school. Healthcare providers should encourage MMR vaccination at well-child visits. Policymakers should work to strengthen public health initiatives that promote routine immunizations.

Take Action to Protect Children in New Hampshire

• Check your child’s vaccination status—talk to your pediatrician today.

• Protect infants and vulnerable individuals by ensuring all eligible family members are vaccinated.

• Advocate for strong immunization policies that keep New Hampshire schools and communities safe.

• Share this message to help raise awareness and stop the spread of measles before it reaches New Hampshire.

Measles is 100% preventable, but only if we take action. Let’s protect our children, our schools, and our communities—before it’s too late.