Expert Insight: Measles Surge A Wake-Up Call

Experts Warn: Measles Surge A "Wake-Up Call"

I can't believe in 2025 this is something we have to say, but measles is making a comeback. Across America nearly 1,600 cases have popped up this year, including three deaths, the most since the ’90s.

Here in Montana, it's not looking much better, as 32 Montanans have tested positive in 2025.

Measles Outbreak Hits Montana in 2025

KPAX of MTN spoke to Dr. Megan Littlefield at RiverStone Health in Billings, who says the spike is unusual.

“The number of cases of measles this year… it’s really uncommon,” she said. “Back in 2000, we were close to eradicating it. Seeing numbers like this now is definitely a wake-up call.”

So what do the doctors at Billings Clinic say the solution is? Vaccinations.

Vaccination Remains The Most Effective Protection

Dr. Neil Ku, who is the infectious disease specialist at Billings Clinic, told KPAX just one MMR shot gives 93% protection; two shots hit 97%.

The recent spike of measles follows the decrease in vaccination rates, as the CDC has seen the amount of kindergartners who have been vaccinated fall from 94.7% in 2011 to 92.5%.

If you're an adult and you aren't sure if you've had the vaccination or the booster, don't worry, says Ku:

It's not harmful to get an extra dose of the MMR.

For more info, visit the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.

Source: KPAX