Measles Cases Are Rising in America. The Vaccine Still Works. It Always Has.

What Happened

Measles cases are increasing in the United States, linked to declining vaccination rates in certain communities. The CDC has reported outbreaks in multiple states. The NY Times warns this trend could lead to the return of other previously eliminated diseases.

Historical Context

Measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, after the MMR vaccine drove cases from ~500,000/year in the 1950s to near zero. Outbreaks have returned before: 2014 saw 667 cases (the worst in 23 years at the time), and 2019 saw 1,282 cases — both were contained. Globally, measles killed ~136,000 people in 2022, almost all in unvaccinated populations. The MMR vaccine is ~97% effective after two doses and has been in use since 1971 with an exceptional safety record. Vaccination rates above ~95% maintain herd immunity. When rates dip below that threshold — as happened in parts of Europe in the 2010s — outbreaks follow predictably, and then, with policy and public health response, they are brought back under control.

What's In Your Control

Whether your children (or you, if born before 1957 or without documented vaccination) are up to date on MMR vaccination. Whether you check your own vaccination records. Whether you consume the NYT's speculative "what comes next" framing as fact.

Does This Require Action?

If you have children or are unsure of your own vaccination status: check your records and consult your doctor. That is the entire action item. The headline's apocalyptic second sentence ("What Comes Next Will Be Worse") is speculation designed to maximize anxiety. The first sentence is the one worth paying attention to.