Measles Myths vs. Facts
Measles — once declared eliminated in our country in 2000 — is back, and it’s not just creeping in. It’s spreading.
Measles is one of the most contagious human diseases. If one person has measles, up to nine out of 10 unvaccinated people nearby will get infected. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or even breathes. While many recover, measles can cause serious complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling) and, in rare cases, death.
More than 95% of recent measles cases involved people who were unvaccinated. Why is this happening? Misinformation and vaccine hesitancy. Let’s clear up the myths about the measles vaccine.
Here are the Myths v. Facts:
Myth
Measles is a harmless childhood illness that is no longer around.
Fact
Measles is not harmless—and it’s definitely not gone. As of April 2025, there have been 800 reported measles cases in 20 states and 2 deaths in the U.S. this year alone. 97% of cases have been in people who were unvaccinated. Measles can cause serious complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis), hearing loss, and even death, especially in young children. The virus is one of the most contagious diseases known and can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves. Vaccination is the best protection.
Two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine are 97% effective and provide lifelong protection against measles for almost all people. Visit the CDC to learn more.
Myth
The measles vaccine doesn’t work.
Fact
The 2025 outbreak is primarily affecting children and teenagers, nearly all of whom are unvaccinated or have an unknown vaccination status.
Decades of research and analysis show the measles vaccination, which is normally given as part of the combination measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, is safe and effective.
These safe and effective vaccines have been in use for more than 50 years. During 2000–2023, measles vaccines saved an estimated 60 million lives worldwide.
One dose of the MMR vaccine is 93% effective against measles and the recommended two doses is 97% effective. For most people, the MMR vaccine will protect you for life. Visit the CDC to learn more.
Myth
The measles vaccine causes autism.
Fact
Despite extensive research showing no link between the MMR vaccine and autism, this dangerous narrative continues to undermine trust and put lives at risk.
Numerous scientific studies over many years have shown there is no connection between autism and the MMR vaccine, confirming its safety and encouraging public confidence in immunization. Still, misinformation continues to spread, and unfounded fears persist. Learn more: Autism and Vaccines | Vaccine Safety | CDC .
Myth
Vitamin A can prevent or cure measles and is a natural alternative to vaccination.
Fact
Vitamin A is not a substitute for vaccination.
Vitamin A supplementation does not prevent measles infection. It can help reduce the severity of measles symptoms—particularly in malnourished children or those with vitamin A deficiency—but only after infection has occurred. Relying on vitamin A instead of vaccination to prevent measles is not effective and puts individuals and communities at risk of infection, complications, and disease spread.
The best way to prevent measles:
Get vaccinated. Two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine are 97% effective and provide lifelong protection for almost all people. These vaccines have been safely used for over 50 years and are one of the most cost-effective public health tools available.
Myth
My decision not to vaccinate only affects me or my child.
Fact
When someone gets vaccinated, they aren’t just protecting themselves – they’re also protecting the people around them. Vaccination coverage of at least 95% is crucial to prevent measles outbreaks and protect those who can’t be vaccinated, like infants and people with certain medical conditions.
When enough people are vaccinated, germs can’t spread as easily. Measles is contagious before symptoms appear, so exposure can happen without warning. Community protection only works if enough people are vaccinated. That’s the power of community (herd)immunity. Visit the CDC to learn more.
Myth
Measles vaccine is more dangerous than getting infected with measles.
Fact
Getting measles is not safer than getting vaccinated. Natural infection carries serious risks including pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death. The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine provides strong, long-lasting immunity without putting your health at risk. Natural infection may give immunity, but it comes at a dangerous cost. The vaccine gives your immune system a safe way to learn how to fight the virus—without putting you in danger. Vaccination is the safest way to protect yourself and your community. Visit the CDC to learn more.
Myth
Only kids get measles.
Fact
Adults can get measles too, especially if they weren’t fully vaccinated. In fact, recent outbreaks have affected many adults who missed doses in childhood.
The best way to prevent measles:
Get vaccinated. Two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine are 97% effective and provide lifelong protection for most people. These vaccines have been safely used for over 50 years and are one of the most cost-effective public health tools available. Visit the CDC to learn more.
Myth
Measles is only dangerous in poor countries.
Fact
Measles can cause serious illness and outbreaks in any country—even wealthy ones. Healthcare systems can quickly become overwhelmed during outbreaks, no matter where they occur.
The best way to prevent measles:
Get vaccinated. Two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine are 97% effective and provide lifelong protection for most people. These vaccines have been safely used for over 50 years and are one of the most cost-effective public health tools available. Visit the World Health Organization (WHO) to learn more.
Updated May 2, 2025, 5:24 PM