© 2026 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Measles cases surged in 2025 as vaccination rates dropped

Season 2026 Episode 23 | 6m 55s

Measles, one of the world’s most contagious diseases, was declared eliminated in the U.S. more than 25 years ago. However, measles cases have skyrocketed in the U.S. as vaccination rates continue to decline, a trend that accelerated during the pandemic. Stephanie Sy spoke with Caitlin Rivers, an epidemiologist at Johns Hopkins University, about the ramifications and reasons behind the outbreak.

Major corporate funding for the PBS News Hour is provided by BDO, BNSF, Consumer Cellular, American Cruise Lines, and Raymond James. Funding for the PBS NewsHour Weekend is provided by Consumer Cellular and Cunard Cruise Line. For a complete list of funders for the PBS NewsHour and PBS NewsHour weekend, click here.
Extras
January 23, 2026 - PBS News Hour full episode
Thousands brave frigid cold in Twin Cities 'ICE Out' protest
'They are circling our schools,' superintendent says after 5-year-old detained by ICE
More than two dozen states preparing for impacts of massive winter storm
News Wrap: Starmer calls Trump's comments on NATO troops in Afghanistan 'insulting'
'FIVE BULLETS'
National security experts argue U.S. TikTok deal falls short
Brooks and Capehart on Trump forcing allies to reevaluate ties with U.S.
January 22, 2026 - PBS News Hour full episode
What to expect from the potentially devastating winter storm