Measles Resurgence: What Travelers Need to Know to Stay Safe

Tue Oct 21 2025 03:18:53 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

With over a thousand measles cases reported in the U.S. this year, travelers must be cautious to avoid infection, especially in crowded areas.

As measles outbreaks continue across the U.S., particularly in Texas, health experts emphasize the importance of vaccination and precautions for travelers, as the virus can spread easily in congested settings.

Measles is back in the spotlight, and the situation is precarious. In 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has documented over a thousand cases nationwide, mainly stemming from an ongoing outbreak in Texas that has sadly led to three fatalities. Measles, one of the most contagious viruses on the planet, creates particular concerns during the summer travel season, where crowded environments increase the risk of transmission, both during travel and at destinations.

Historically, travel-related outbreaks are significant; a notable incident was the measles outbreak linked to Disneyland in 2014, which resulted in more than 100 infections. Fortunately, an effective vaccine exists, and ensuring that all family members eligible for vaccination are up-to-date is crucial for maintaining health during summer trips.

Airports, airplanes, and overcrowded settings often act as hotspots for potential infection. The measles virus can linger in the air for hours and remain viable on surfaces, meaning you don’t even need to be in direct contact with an infected person to catch it. Moreover, individuals can spread the virus before they show any visible symptoms, such as the characteristic rash; early signs include a heavy runny nose, which contains the virus.

For those at risk, including unvaccinated individuals and those with weakened immune systems, wearing masks in crowded settings may mitigate the risk of contracting not only measles but other illnesses as well. Careful consideration about engaging in crowded environments, particularly indoors, is advised, especially for the most vulnerable populations.