More than 2,200 cases were reported in the U.S. in 2025, and over 1,700 cases in 32 states have already been confirmed in the first four months of 2026 alone—and Montana is one of them.
According to national data, measles cases are rising quickly. More than 2,200 cases were reported in the U.S. last year, and over 1,700 cases in 32 states have already been confirmed in the first four months of 2026 alone—and Montana is one of them.
Measles is a highly infectious respiratory illness that is spread through coughs, sneezes, and breathing. A single infected person can spread it to up to 18 people who are not immune — often before symptoms appear. And the virus can linger in the air for 2 hours or more after an ill person has left the area.
Despite decades of evidence showing the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective, vaccine hesitancy continues to be a barrier. Claude Tonnerre MD, infection disease expert at Providence St. Patrick Hospital, emphasizes that the risks of measles far outweigh the risks of vaccination.
“Vaccination remains the most effective way to stop the spread of measles. Communitywide vaccination is critical, especially to protect our most vulnerable populations, including infants under 6 months old, pregnant women and immunocompromised patients.”
Measles can cause serious health complications, such as pneumonia (infection of the lungs), encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and even death. About 1 in 5 unvaccinated people in the U.S. who get measles ends up hospitalized due to their illness.
Those who are vaccinated against measles are 97% less likely to catch it. And if they do, their illness is often milder and less likely to spread.
If you have questions or concerns, talk with a trusted health care provider. Staying informed and up to date on vaccinations helps protect not only ourselves, but our families, neighbors, and communities.
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