HERMISTON, Ore.-The number of measles outbreaks so far this year has already surpassed the total for all of 2024.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been 301 confirmed cases of measles across 15 states in the first three months of 2025 and one confirmed death related to the outbreaks.
While no measles cases have been reported in Oregon, one has been confirmed in Washington State, and health officials are advising parents to get the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine for their children.
“Immunization is crucial for the prevention of measles,” said Joseph Fiumara, Public Health Director for Umatilla County Public Health.
Measles is an extremely infectious airborne rash illness that primarily affects children and young people.
According to the CDC, 34 percent of the measles cases reported so far this year were in children under the age of five, with another 42 percent affecting children between the ages of five and 19.
Measles was declared eliminated in 2000 due to high rates of vaccination, however, the illness has made a comeback as vaccination rates have declined, especially among kindergarten-aged children.
“With decades of data demonstrating its safety and efficacy, I strongly encourage all parents to ensure their children receive the measles vaccine,” said Fiumara.
Anyone who is unsure of their MMR vaccination status or who would like to get their children vaccinated should consult with their primary care physician.
