Measles Cases Surge Across the U.S. as Holiday Travel Looms: Experts Urge Nationwide Vaccination for Safe Trips to New York, Los Angeles, Miami and Beyond

Published on December 12, 2025

As measles cases surge across the U.S., concerns are mounting ahead of the busy holiday travel season. With destinations like New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and many more seeing a rise in reported cases, experts are urging everyone to get vaccinated before heading out. Measles is a highly contagious disease that can spread rapidly in crowded public spaces, such as airports, buses, and restaurants. As the holidays approach, millions of people are planning trips to these popular cities, increasing the risk of exposure. Experts emphasize that vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself and others from the virus.

They are calling for nationwide vaccination efforts to ensure that travelers can enjoy their holidays safely. By taking preventative steps now, travelers can reduce the risk of contracting or spreading measles during the busy travel period. Stay informed, stay safe, and make your health a priority this season.

The Importance of Vaccination in Preventing Measles

Measles is a highly contagious disease that can spread quickly through public spaces, particularly when large groups of people gather. For those planning holiday travel, experts stress that the best protection against this disease is vaccination. Dr. Richard Ricciardi, a professor at The George Washington University School of Nursing, emphasized the importance of vaccination as the most effective form of preventive health. Vaccines not only protect individuals but also help to protect entire communities by creating herd immunity, which slows the spread of the disease.

According to Dr. Ricciardi, one of the most crucial steps in preventing measles is ensuring that both children and adults are vaccinated. He pointed out that for adults who were never vaccinated as children, it is essential to get the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine to reduce their susceptibility to the disease. This recommendation comes as health officials remain concerned about the potential risks of outbreaks during peak travel times, particularly as the virus can easily be transmitted in confined spaces such as airports, planes, and crowded tourist attractions.

Measles Exposure and Prevention Tips for Travelers

If you have already received the vaccine, you are likely to have lifelong immunity, providing peace of mind for those who may be concerned about exposure. However, Dr. Ricciardi emphasized that even if you’ve been vaccinated, travelers should still take extra precautions, especially if they are headed to areas where measles is on the rise.

In the case of travelers who are not vaccinated or who have recently been vaccinated, Dr. Ricciardi advises minimizing exposure to large crowds, particularly in indoor spaces. Measles is highly contagious and can linger in the air for hours in closed environments, meaning even after infected individuals have left the area, the virus can still pose a threat to others.

Dr. Ricciardi also cautioned travelers to be mindful of the fact that measles is more easily spread in places where people are in close contact with one another, such as airports, hotels, and public transport. Therefore, it is important to keep safety measures in place, such as wearing masks and avoiding congested areas whenever possible.

What You Need to Know About Vaccination Schedules

The measles vaccine is typically administered as part of the MMR vaccine, which also protects against mumps and rubella. For children, the vaccine is given in two doses: the first at 12 to 15 months of age and the second at 4 to 6 years old. However, even children who received the first dose at 6 to 7 months old will still need the second and third doses as they grow older.

The two-dose regimen ensures that children have the strongest possible immunity against measles as they approach school age. While the MMR vaccine offers lifelong protection, keeping up with the recommended vaccination schedule is vital to preventing the disease, particularly in the face of the ongoing surge in cases.

Holiday Travel and Measles Outbreaks: What’s at Stake?

As families prepare for end-of-year holidays, many are unaware of the growing risk of exposure to contagious diseases like measles. Measles can have severe consequences, particularly for young children, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Symptoms of the disease include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash that typically starts at the head and spreads to the rest of the body. While most people recover from measles, complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death are possible, especially among those who are not vaccinated.

The holiday travel season is traditionally a time for families to reconnect, explore new destinations, and celebrate together. However, health experts are urging travelers to prioritize their health and safety by ensuring that they and their children are vaccinated before embarking on their journeys. This will not only help prevent the spread of measles but will also reduce the risk of complications from the disease.

Staying Informed and Safe: Vaccination and Health Resources

In light of the recent surge in measles cases, travelers are encouraged to check with local health departments and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for the latest vaccination guidelines. The CDC has issued a number of travel health advisories related to measles, particularly for individuals visiting regions where the disease is circulating. These guidelines emphasize the importance of receiving the MMR vaccine before travel, as well as remaining vigilant about health during the trip.

For those planning international travel, especially to countries with limited vaccination coverage, it’s essential to ensure that your vaccination schedule is up to date before departure. Travelers are advised to consult with their healthcare providers for personalized advice and to discuss any concerns about their vaccination status.

Final Thoughts: Protecting Yourself and Others

As measles cases continue to rise, it is imperative for travelers to take proactive measures to protect themselves and those around them. Ensuring that you and your family are vaccinated, avoiding crowded indoor spaces when possible, and staying informed about potential outbreaks are key to staying healthy during the holiday season. By taking these steps, travelers can reduce their risk of contracting measles and ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday vacation.