Measles Outbreak Spreads: Tennessee Reports 4 Cases Amid National Rise

The Tennessee Department of Health confirmed three new measles cases this week, raising the state’s total to four. This comes as part of a larger national outbreak, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting 483 cases across 20 states and cities. Here’s what you need to know about the growing health concern.


Measles Cases Rise in Tennessee

On March 21, Tennessee reported its first measles case of 2025. By March 27, three additional cases were confirmed. Health officials revealed one of the new cases is linked to the original patient, but details about exposure locations or affected individuals remain undisclosed. All four patients are recovering at home, and health teams are working to identify others who may have been exposed.

The Metro Public Health Department (MPHD) in Nashville faced setbacks in vaccination efforts after losing federal funding for its Strike Team, which organizes vaccine clinics in underserved communities. While clinics were temporarily canceled, officials confirmed they are working to reschedule them. Mayor Freddie O’Connell urged residents to get vaccinated, stating, “There’s only one good way to protect yourself and your community: to get vaccinated.”


National Measles Outbreak Overview

The CDC’s latest report highlights measles outbreaks in 20 jurisdictions, including Tennessee. Texas leads with 422 cases, including 42 hospitalizations and one child death. Nationwide, two fatalities have been linked to measles in 2025.

States like Florida, California, New York, and Ohio are also seeing rising cases. Measles spreads quickly, especially in communities with low vaccination rates. The CDC warns that even small pockets of unvaccinated individuals can fuel outbreaks.


Impact on Public Health Efforts

The loss of federal funding in Nashville disrupted plans for MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine clinics. Dr. Joanna Shaw-KaiKai, MPHD’s Medical Services Director, called the situation a “public health issue,” stressing that unvaccinated individuals risk spreading preventable diseases.

Tennessee’s vaccination rate for measles hovers around 93% for kindergarteners, below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity. Health departments statewide are urging families to check vaccination records and schedule appointments if needed.


Understanding Measles: Symptoms and Risks

Measles is a highly contagious virus spread through coughing, sneezing, or contact with contaminated surfaces. Symptoms appear 7–14 days after exposure and include:

• High fever
• Cough and runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• A rash that starts on the face and spreads
  
  Complications can range from ear infections to severe pneumonia or brain swelling (encephalitis). Children under five, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals face higher risks.
  
  
  How to Protect Your Family
  
  The MMR vaccine is 97% effective at preventing measles after two doses. Key steps include:
  1.Check Vaccination Records: Ensure children receive their first dose at 12–15 months and the second at 4–6 years.
  2.Adults: Those born after 1957 who haven’t had measles or the vaccine should consider getting vaccinated.
  3.Stay Informed: Follow updates from local health departments about vaccine clinics or exposure sites.
  
  If you suspect measles, contact a healthcare provider immediately. Avoid public spaces to prevent spreading the virus.
  
  
  What’s Next for Tennessee?
  
  Health officials are tracing contacts of infected individuals and monitoring for new cases. Schools and daycare centers are reviewing immunization records, as measles outbreaks often start in group settings.
  
  Nashville’s rescheduled vaccine clinics aim to boost community immunity. Free or low-cost MMR vaccines are available at health departments and clinics for uninsured families.
  
  
  Why Vaccination Matters
  
  Measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000 due to widespread vaccination. Recent outbreaks highlight the danger of declining vaccine rates. “Vaccines save lives,” said Dr. Shaw-KaiKai. “One case can quickly become ten if we’re not protected.”
  
  As Tennessee works to contain its outbreak, health leaders emphasize that vaccination isn’t just personal protection—it shields vulnerable neighbors, infants, and those who can’t get vaccinated.
  
  For updates on measles cases or vaccine clinics, visit the Tennessee Department of Health website or contact your local health provider.