Vaccination Rates Drop Amid Measles Outbreaks Across the U.S.

Pennsylvania, USA — A significant decline in measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination rates in schools has prompted health experts to sound the alarm as measles cases surge nationwide. Recent data analyzed by the Investigative Team shows that while most schools in Pennsylvania were above the 95% vaccination threshold, about 25% of schools have fallen below this critical level, nearly doubling over the last five years.

Public health officials emphasize that a vaccination rate of at least 95% is crucial for herd immunity, which protects vulnerable populations unable to receive vaccines for medical reasons. Dr. Lori Handy, an epidemiologist, stated, “We see a lot of families worried about vaccines, and with measles being a highly contagious disease, lower vaccination rates put everyone at risk.”

The rising rate of unvaccinated children has been tied to societal shifts in vaccine perception, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. The MMR vaccination rate for kindergarteners in Pennsylvania recently dropped below herd immunity at 94%, and certain schools reported MMR rates as low as 43%.

Outbreaks have already resulted in serious consequences — at least three unvaccinated children died in Texas and New Mexico earlier this year due to complications from measles. There have been over 1,000 reported cases of measles nationwide so far in 2025, with 133 hospitalizations.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stresses that vaccines have successfully reduced measles cases since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000. However, with growing hesitancy toward vaccines, experts fear the U.S. could lose its measles elimination status.

Parents also exercise exemptions for various reasons, including religious or philosophical beliefs, which has contributed to declining vaccination rates across the state. Handy explained, “When vaccination rates drop below herd immunity levels, diseases like measles can spread rapidly in communities, putting unvaccinated children at greater risk.”.

Schools are required by Pennsylvania law to verify students’ vaccination records. However, the increase in exemptions raises concerns about community health and safety.

“It’s essential for us all to vaccinate our kids to not only protect them but also those who cannot be vaccinated due to health issues,” Handy noted. As more parents choose not to vaccinate, the risk of outbreaks looms larger, instigating a public health crisis.

Buhl, a South Philadelphia mother who chose not to vaccinate her sons, cites personal research and anecdotal evidence to justify her stance. However, health authorities continue to advocate for vaccinations, emphasizing their role in public health.

“The benefits of vaccines far outweigh the risks. It’s about protecting not just your child, but the community as well,” Handy concluded.