Measles Cases Rising: Protect Yourself

Measles cases are climbing in the United States, with more than 20 states reporting measles cases so far in 2025. While Arizona hasn’t reported any cases yet, nearby states have. Measles spreads so easily that 9 out 10 people who are not protected from the virus will become infected with the virus after being exposed.

Now is the time to make sure you and your loved ones are protected.

How to protect yourself

The best way to protect against the measles is to get the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Children ages 12 months-12 years may get either the MMR or the measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (MMRV) vaccine, which also protects against chickenpox. The MMR vaccine is recommended for adults born after 1957 who are unvaccinated, unsure of vaccination or immunity status, or received a measles vaccine before 1968. If you are at an increased risk for serious complications, talk to your healthcare provider.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine for full protection, especially for school-aged children and adults at high risk. Just one dose of the MMR vaccine is 93 percent effective against measles, and that protection increases to 97 percent after a second dose.

Reasons to Vaccinate

It’s always better to prevent disease than to treat one after it occurs.

• Vaccines help our body’s immune system learn how to fight germs.
• Vaccines are safe. Before a new vaccine is given to people, extensive safety testing is done.
• Vaccines can prevent serious illness.

For AZ Blue members

Contact your primary care provider to make an appointment to get the MMR vaccine if you or your child have not already been vaccinated. Most plans cover the full cost of the vaccine if you see an in-network provider. Login to your AZ Blue member portal to find an in-network doctor by clicking ‘Find a Doctor’ on the dashboard.