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Measles

Why the Measles Outbreak Is So Dangerous, in 5 Quick Facts

Lauren Smith, MAKaren Hovav, MD, FAAP
Written by Lauren Smith, MA | Reviewed by Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP
Updated on November 5, 2025
Reviewed by Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP | November 5, 2025

Unfortunately, myths about vaccines have caused measles immunization levels to drop, and as a result, new outbreaks of measles have occurred in pockets throughout the United States (and in some European countries as well). To protect your family and your community from measles, learn more about the recommended vaccine schedule for babies.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). History of measles.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). How measles spreads.

GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.

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Lauren Smith, MA
Written by:
Lauren Smith, MA
Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.
Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP
Reviewed by:
Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP
Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP, has more than 15 years of experience as an attending pediatrician. She has worked in a large academic center in an urban city, a small community hospital, a private practice, and an urgent care clinic.
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