Arizona’s Measles Cases See Significant Decline, Yet Caution Remains
Arizona recently experienced its first month without a reported measles case in over a year, signaling a potential shift in the ongoing struggle against the disease. As of 2025, Arizona documented 345 measles cases, marking the state’s highest count in decades. However, a significant decrease in cases has been observed, with only one case each in August and September, and none in October.
Mohave County, previously the epicenter of the state’s largest outbreak, has not reported any new cases since late April. Despite this local progress, the highly contagious disease continues to affect other regions in the United States. According to Shane Brady, deputy assistant director of preparedness with the Arizona Department of Health Services, Arizonans should remain vigilant, particularly with the holiday season approaching.
“That could introduce more risk into the state because there could be more individuals traveling to other places and bringing measles back here,” Brady stated. The increase in indoor gatherings during the holidays also raises concerns, as Brady pointed out that measles can easily spread indoors and linger in the air for up to two hours after a contagious person has left the room.
The Arizona Department of Health Services reports that 95% of measles cases in 2025 and 2026 occurred among unvaccinated individuals. The MMR vaccine is known to provide strong, lifelong protection against measles. Brady emphasized the importance of vaccination, saying, “The best way to protect yourself and your family is to get that MMR vaccine.”
As the state navigates these developments, health officials encourage residents to maintain preventive measures and consider vaccination to safeguard public health. For more information on measles and vaccination, visit the Arizona Department of Health Services.
For further details on the measles outbreak in other states, read more on NPR.
