Health officials warn of a resurgence in measles – a disease declared eliminated in the United States in 2000 but now seeing its highest case count in more than 30 years with over 2,000 cases reported in 2025.
Kent County reported its first case since 2013.
“We had four here in Kent County last year. And yeah, it's a concern that we're going to see measles come back on a regular and consistent basis.”
Kent County Health Officer Dr. Adam London notes that health experts blame the national vaccination rate declining to roughly 92%. That’s below the 95% required for herd immunity.
Dr. London is concerned about elevated cases in popular spring break destinations.
“We are seeing right now some pretty high levels in places like South Carolina, which has the highest number of cases so far this year with over 600 cases that have been diagnosed. Florida is also a higher number right now along with Texas.”
London advises checking Centers for Disease Control and Prevention travel notices to avoid areas with an active outbreak and getting current on vaccines.
“The good thing is that measles is highly preventable. The vaccine for measles is very safe. It's very effective. One dose provides up to 93% protection against the measles infection. The recommended two doses give a person 97% effective protection.”
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