Fact Check: "Cases of measles are on the rise as she leaves."
What We Know
Recent data from the CDC indicates a significant increase in measles cases in the United States. As of June 12, 2025, there have been 1,197 confirmed measles cases reported across 35 jurisdictions, with 90% of these cases being outbreak-associated. This marks a stark contrast to the previous year, 2024, which saw only 285 cases and 16 outbreaks. The increase in cases is attributed to a decline in vaccination rates, with MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) coverage among kindergarteners dropping from 95.2% in the 2019-2020 school year to 92.7% in 2023-2024, leaving approximately 280,000 children at risk (CDC).
Globally, the situation is similarly alarming. A report from the World Health Organization (WHO) noted that there were an estimated 10.3 million cases of measles worldwide in 2023, a 20% increase from the previous year. The number of countries experiencing large or disruptive outbreaks also rose from 36 to 57 during the same period. This trend underscores a significant public health challenge, as measles is highly contagious and can lead to severe complications.
Analysis
The claim that "cases of measles are on the rise" is supported by robust data from both the CDC and WHO. The CDC's report highlights a dramatic increase in confirmed cases and outbreaks in the U.S., which is consistent with the global rise in measles cases reported by the WHO. The CDC's statistics are credible, as they are based on confirmed cases reported by health jurisdictions and reflect ongoing surveillance efforts (CDC).
The WHO's findings also lend credibility to the assertion, as they provide a broader context of increasing measles incidence worldwide. The increase in cases correlates with declining vaccination rates, particularly in communities with lower MMR coverage, which is critical for maintaining herd immunity (WHO). The WHO's data is derived from extensive global health monitoring and is widely regarded as authoritative in public health discussions.
Both sources are reliable and free from significant bias, as they are established public health organizations focused on providing accurate health information. However, it is important to note that the increase in measles cases is not merely a localized issue but part of a larger global trend that requires urgent public health responses.
Conclusion
The claim that "cases of measles are on the rise" is True. The evidence from both the CDC and WHO clearly indicates a significant increase in measles cases both in the United States and worldwide. This rise is linked to declining vaccination rates and highlights the need for renewed public health efforts to combat this highly contagious disease.
