To date this year, 1,024 confirmed measles cases have been reported across 31 states, with 14 outbreaks active in 2025. Three deaths have already occurred—including two children.
Nearly all cases, 96%, involve individuals who are unvaccinated, or vaccination status is unknown, and children under 5 account for 30% of infections.
Territorial Epidemiologist, Dr. Esther Ellis, noted that the “greatest concern is the fact that more than 50% of children under age 6 (in the US Virgin Islands) are unvaccinated for measles. That leaves a large portion of our youngest population at high risk.”
Last week the Department mailed almost 500 letters to parents and guardians who had previously requested and received exemptions from childhood vaccinations. The letters, signed by Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion, strongly urge families to reconsider and take immediate steps to protect their children.
Dr. Ellis noted that measles is extremely contagious and potentially fatal but preventable with the MMR vaccine, which is 97% effective with two doses.
The vaccine is available at the VI Department of Health clinics, pediatric offices, and participating pharmacies across the territory.
For more information about childhood vaccinations, parents should speak with their provider or call the Department of Health’s Maternal Child Health or MCH Clinic at:
- St. Thomas: (340) 777-8804
- St. Croix: (340) 712-0131
“To date, the territory has not had a confirmed measles case—and with your help, we can keep it that way,” Dr. Ellis said. “We urge you to act now — before summer travel increases the risk of exposure.”
