Measles on the Rise: What You Need to Know
Recently, an adult patient asked me if they needed a measles booster. Honestly, I learned about measles in med school and hadn’t thought much about it since — it was, for the most part, eradicated in the U.S.
Yet, as of March 20th, 2025, there have been 378 measles cases nationwide, 309 in Texas. As a Texas doctor with many of my patients residing here, we can not comfortably ignore this subject when 82% of the cases are in our state.
Let me be crystal clear.
Vaccinations may be the most significant medical breakthrough of the 20th century. Before the recent pandemic, most of us lived in a time when the devastating effects of infectious diseases were no longer at the top of our minds — myself included.
As a family medicine-trained physician, I have long advocated for childhood vaccines and administered many of them throughout my career.
Yet, it is ok to be an advocate and thoughtful simultaneously. Should we continually evaluate the risks versus benefits of vaccines, even with their incredible success rate? Absolutely.
Science isn’t a static body of knowledge; as we all saw during COVID-19, it’s a field of ongoing questions. That’s why I stand for both education and sovereignty of medical choice for every person since there is no one-size-fits-all in medicine or life.
For those who get emotional on either side of this vaccine issue, I would like you to lean in with curiosity about your neighbor's story and ask about their why - bilaterally. I heard a great quote that greatly softened my heart on any emotionally charged topic: “You cannot fight someone in the same way when you know their heart.” - Sun Tzu.
So, what should we all know regarding measles?
Key First Signs and Common Symptoms
• High Fever: Often the first noticeable symptom, reaching up to 104°F (40°C).
• Koplik Spots: Small white spots inside the side of the mouth next to the 2nd molar, appearing 1-2 days before the rash.
• The “3 C’s”: Cough, Conjunctivitis (red eyes), and Coryza (runny nose) are classic indicators.
• Rash: A red, blotchy rash that typically starts on the face and spreads downward across the body.
Potential Complications
Measles isn’t just about a rash and fever; it can lead to severe health issues, particularly in young children and immunocompromised individuals. Complications include:
• Pneumonia: A leading cause of measles-related deaths.
• Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain, which can cause lasting damage.
• Severe Dehydration and Malnutrition
The Role of Vitamin A
Vitamin A supplementation is a vital treatment for children diagnosed with measles. It has been shown to reduce the severity of symptoms, prevent complications like blindness in developing countries, and lower the risk of death. This is especially critical for malnourished children or those with weakened immune systems.
What About Adults?
• Vaccinated Adults: If you’ve received two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, you’re typically protected for life.
• Uncertain or Unvaccinated?: If you’re unsure of your vaccination status or only received one dose, a booster may be recommended — particularly if you’re traveling internationally or are in a region with an active outbreak like Texas.
• Atypical Measles: This is a rare reaction in individuals vaccinated between 1963 and 1967 with the older, killed-virus vaccine. While symptoms may occur, they are generally milder.
• Born Before 1957?: Most adults born before this year are presumed immune due to natural exposure.
When to Seek Medical Attention?
If you or your child develop a high fever with a rash starting on the face and spreading downward, along with any of the symptoms mentioned above, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis and supportive care can make all the difference.
Be BioFIT- Be Educated, Not Influenced.
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Grateful to be your physician guide.
Kevin Hoffarth MD, IFCMP
BioFIT Medicine