US measles outbreak surges to 30-year high as vaccine rates drop in 2025

Measles cases in the US climbed sharply in 2025, reaching 2,288 confirmed infections—the highest number since 1991. The spike came as vaccination rates among kindergarteners dropped below the 95% level required to stop the virus spreading in communities. Meanwhile, misinformation about unproven treatments led to a dangerous rise in vitamin A misuse among parents. The outbreak hit hardest among unvaccinated or undervaccinated groups, accounting for 96% of all cases in 2025. Despite this, public figures like Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and podcaster Joe Rogan discussed vitamin A as a possible measles remedy in early 2025. Their comments triggered a wave of online searches for terms like 'vitamin A and measles' and 'cod liver and measles' in February and March.

Experts stressed that vitamin A, while vital for vision, immunity, and cell function, does not prevent or cure measles. Worse, incorrect doses can cause serious harm. Poison control centres saw a 38.7% jump in pediatric vitamin A exposures during the first three months of 2025 compared to 2024. Short-term effects of excess vitamin A include nausea, dizziness, and blurred vision, while long-term risks range from weakened bones to liver damage and birth defects. By early 2026, the trend showed no sign of slowing, with 2,030 measles cases already reported. Health officials repeated warnings that vaccination remains the only proven way to stop the disease.

The 2025 measles outbreak exposed gaps in vaccination coverage and the risks of unproven treatments. With cases rising again in early 2026, authorities continue to urge parents to rely on vaccines rather than supplements. The surge in vitamin A-related poisonings also highlighted the dangers of misinformation during public health crises.