Ishita Roy

What Is The Science Behind A Red Lipstick?

When I was growing up, something that struck my mind was Taylor Swift’s fourth studio album from 2012, Red. The song ‘22’ especially had an impact on me. I looked at Taylor, she looked gorgeous in that <span>red lipstick</span> and so I started putting it on too. Little did I know that it would become ‘my thing.’ 

It gave me confidence and a sense of empowerment, which is what triggered me to write about it. 

Is there any <span>psychology</span> behind red lipstick? Well, psychologist Dr Jennifer Baumgartner believes that red lipstick is a bold and confident colour and is associated with power and desire. In an interview with Dermaliscio, she said, “Red lipstick is the ultimate power colour. When a woman wears red lipstick, she is sending a message that she is confident and in control.” 

A study by the University of Manchester also found that women who wore red lipstick felt more confident, attractive and successful. 

<h5>Cultural Significance</h5>In the ancient world, painted red lips were seen as the symbol of opulence and sophistication. In Egypt, both men and women would highlight their features with naturally available makeup. Queen Cleopatra would crush red ants and beetles to make the scarlet colour, say the historical records. 

In Chinese culture, the colour red is also associated with luck and prosperity. 

Historically too, red lipstick has been associated with women's empowerment. For instance, during the suffragette movement of 20th century, red lipstick became a symbol of self-identity and freedom. It was used as a tool to be heard. Experts suggest that the colour red draws one’s attention to it. If you wear the colour on your lips, it will draw people’s attention to your mouth and what you say. 

“In order to gain more notoriety and attention to their cause, some ladies would wear lipstick to their public events. This was seen as the mark of the independent, emancipated woman, which at the time was thought to be quite scandalous. This subversive action would have brought censure from men, and some women who regarded these women as morally lacking.” said cosmetic historian Gabriela Hernandez in an interview toTeen Vogue. 

Even during the World War II, red lipstick was used as a cultural weapon and as an image of ‘a modern woman.’ During this time the US government encouraged women to wear red lipstick while their partners, who were men, fought in the war. 

<h5>How does it empower you?</h5>Clinical psychologist Carla Marie Naly says that red tones suggest passion, power and sexual virility to men. Since it has been used as a cultural tool and image of control, it symbolises women’s agency over themselves in all aspects. “It can affect your self-confidence,” says Manly. 

While clinical psychologist Holly Schiff says that while it is attention-grabbing, “red lips are also linked with confidence.” 

These are the factors why wearing red lipstick makes one feel empowered. The most important part is that it lets women claim the spaces which they have been historically and institutionally denied to. This is also the reason why the international non-profit organisation which raises awareness about sexual violence is named Red My Lips. 

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When I was growing up, something that struck my mind was Taylor Swift’s fourth studio album from 2012, Red. The song ‘22’ especially had an impact on me. I looked at Taylor, she looked gorgeous in that red lipstick and so I started putting it on too. Little did I know that it would become ‘my thing.’ It gave me confidence and a sense of empowerment, which is what triggered me to write about it. Is there any psychology behind red lipstick? Well, psychologist Dr Jennifer Baumgartner believes that red lipstick is a bold and confident colour and is associated with power and desire. In an interview with Dermaliscio, she said, “Red lipstick is the ultimate power colour. When a woman wears red lipstick, she is sending a message that she is confident and in control.” A study by the University of Manchester also found that women who wore red lipstick felt more confident, attractive and successful. Cultural SignificanceIn the ancient world, painted red lips were seen as the symbol of opulence and sophistication. In Egypt, both men and women would highlight their features with naturally available makeup. Queen Cleopatra would crush red ants and beetles to make the scarlet colour, say the historical records. In Chinese culture, the colour red is also associated with luck and prosperity. Historically too, red lipstick has been associated with women's empowerment. For instance, during the suffragette movement of 20th century, red lipstick became a symbol of self-identity and freedom. It was used as a tool to be heard. Experts suggest that the colour red draws one’s attention to it. If you wear the colour on your lips, it will draw people’s attention to your mouth and what you say. “In order to gain more notoriety and attention to their cause, some ladies would wear lipstick to their public events. This was seen as the mark of the independent, emancipated woman, which at the time was thought to be quite scandalous. This subversive action would have brought censure from men, and some women who regarded these women as morally lacking.” said cosmetic historian Gabriela Hernandez in an interview toTeen Vogue. Even during the World War II, red lipstick was used as a cultural weapon and as an image of ‘a modern woman.’ During this time the US government encouraged women to wear red lipstick while their partners, who were men, fought in the war. How does it empower you?Clinical psychologist Carla Marie Naly says that red tones suggest passion, power and sexual virility to men. Since it has been used as a cultural tool and image of control, it symbolises women’s agency over themselves in all aspects. “It can affect your self-confidence,” says Manly. While clinical psychologist Holly Schiff says that while it is attention-grabbing, “red lips are also linked with confidence.” These are the factors why wearing red lipstick makes one feel empowered. The most important part is that it lets women claim the spaces which they have been historically and institutionally denied to. This is also the reason why the international non-profit organisation which raises awareness about sexual violence is named Red My Lips.  

what is the science behind a red lipstick?

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Diabetes is known for its impact on blood sugar but one of the first and often overlooked warning signs may appear right in front of your eyes—literally. Changes in vision might be the first sign that there is something amiss, even ahead of the official diagnosis of diabetes.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that an estimated 30.3 million adults in the United States have diabetes, and nearly 90% of them have Type 2 diabetes—a condition in which your body becomes resistant to insulin and has difficulty regulating normal blood sugar levels. While the disease is usually linked to complications such as neuropathy or kidney disease, your eyes may be the first organ to exhibit signs of suffering.

The eye is a sensitive organ covered in a close network of blood vessels, particularly in the retina—the thin layer of tissue at the back of your eye that facilitates vision. High blood sugar levels over time can hurt these small blood vessels, making them become inflamed, leaky, or clogged. That's called <span>diabetic retinopathy</span>, and it's one of the first—and possibly most destructive—complications of diabetes.

Over one-third of working-age population with diabetes already have signs of <span>diabetic eye disease</span>, and it is still a major cause of blindness among this group. Many are also unaware they have it—until their eyesight is already compromised.

Diabetic retinopathy often progresses painlessly and without any signs, at least in its early stages. That's why regular eye exams are so important—despite your vision appearing completely normal.

If left uncontrolled, diabetic retinopathy may result in impaired or even complete vision loss. Worse, the damage tends to be permanent. Early detection and therapy can slow or even prevent progression, but the secret is to be vigilant and preventive. 

<h2>Early Warning Signs of Diabetes In Your Eyes You Can't Ignore</h2>

Tiny specks, cobwebs, or worm-like forms floating in your line of sight are usually harmless. But a sudden proliferation of floaters—particularly if there's blurred or obscured vision—may indicate bleeding into the retina, a symptom of diabetic retinopathy.

Any dimming of vision or blind spots, especially in the central visual field, are warning signs. These "blockages of vision" can indicate swelling of the retina or hemorrhaging—and need to be seen by an ophthalmologist right away.

Changes in blood sugar levels can disrupt your eye's ability to focus, causing fleeting or ongoing blurring. This can make it harder to read, drive, or identify faces and can continue to get worse if left unchecked.

Partial blindness, i.e., reduced peripheral vision or inability to see in dim light, can be a sign of advanced retinopathy or retinal detachment. Vision can even black out for a short time—a warning of extreme vascular damage.

If you have any of these symptoms, even if you don't have diabetes, it is important to consult an eye care professional immediately.

<h2>What Causes Diabetic Eye Damage?</h2>

Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood glucose levels start damaging the tiny blood vessels of the retina—the light-sensitive nerve tissue at the back of the eye. The vessels can become clogged, leak fluid or blood, or cause new and fragile, abnormal vessels to grow through a process known as neovascularization. This cascade can result in swelling, inflammation, scarring, and, eventually, retinal and optic nerve damage. In bad cases, the retina can come loose or fluid will pool in the macula (the retina's center portion), producing a condition called macular edema. These issues can lead to permanent loss of vision if left untreated.

Even though any diabetic is susceptible to developing diabetic retinopathy, there are some populations that are particularly at risk. These include those with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, especially those with poorly managed blood glucose levels. Pregnant women who develop gestational diabetes and individuals who have had diabetes for longer than five to ten years have a higher risk of retinal complications. Those with coexisting conditions like high blood pressure or elevated cholesterol are at even greater risk, as these issues can accelerate the damage to blood vessels in the eyes. Research indicates that up to 75% of people with Type 1 diabetes will develop some form of retinopathy, while approximately 50% of individuals with Type 2 diabetes show signs—often within the first decade following diagnosis.

<h2>Can Diabetic Retinopathy Be Cured?</h2>

Regrettably, diabetic retinopathy has no cure. The condition can be prevented from worsening if intervention is made early. Thanks to the advancements in medical technology, a number of treatment avenues can be employed. Anti-VEGF injections are usually used to prevent abnormal vessels from growing on the retina. Laser therapy is also an effective method that involves destroying leaking vessels and preventing vision loss. In more serious instances, vitrectomy surgery might be necessary to eliminate scarring tissue or blood within the eye. Most importantly, the most important thing is to control diabetes properly—adhering to healthy blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol can go a long way in preventing serious eye complications in the long run.

<h2>Protect Your Vision with These 3 Non-Negotiable Steps</h2>

If you’ve noticed floaters, blurriness, or dark spots, don’t dismiss them. These could be more than visual annoyances—they might be early cries for help from your body. Although it's clear that preventive care, lifestyle changes, and monitoring are your best weapons against diabetes-related blindness.

<h4>1. Prioritize Lifestyle Interventions</h4>

Exercise, proper diet, and weight control are important. Include low-impact activity such as walking, yoga, or swimming. Follow a diet with high fiber, antioxidants, and whole grains and reduce saturated fats and refined carbohydrates.

<h4>2. Monitor Blood Sugar and A1C Levels</h4>

Regular blood sugar checks and routine monitoring of A1C levels (which measure average glucose over three months) can help you detect and correct abnormal trends. Aim for an A1C below 7%, or as recommended by your healthcare provider.

Your diabetes care regimen should include a dilated eye exam once a year. These tests alone can detect early signs of diabetic retinopathy. More frequent examinations may be warranted if risks or symptoms rise.

Your vision is not simply a measure of how well you see—it's literally a window to your overall health. In some cases, eye problems might be the first sign that you have diabetes. That's why receiving regular eye exams—even in the absence of obvious symptoms—is a key component of preventive care.

diabetic retinopathy

first sign of diabetes

diabetes eye symptoms

blurred vision diabetes

floaters and diabetes

eye damage from diabetes

diabetic eye disease

Diabetes is known for its impact on blood sugar but one of the first and often overlooked warning signs may appear right in front of your eyes—literally. Changes in vision might be the first sign that there is something amiss, even ahead of the official diagnosis of diabetes.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that an estimated 30.3 million adults in the United States have diabetes, and nearly 90% of them have Type 2 diabetes—a condition in which your body becomes resistant to insulin and has difficulty regulating normal blood sugar levels. While the disease is usually linked to complications such as neuropathy or kidney disease, your eyes may be the first organ to exhibit signs of suffering.The eye is a sensitive organ covered in a close network of blood vessels, particularly in the retina—the thin layer of tissue at the back of your eye that facilitates vision. High blood sugar levels over time can hurt these small blood vessels, making them become inflamed, leaky, or clogged. That's called diabetic retinopathy, and it's one of the first—and possibly most destructive—complications of diabetes.Over one-third of working-age population with diabetes already have signs of diabetic eye disease, and it is still a major cause of blindness among this group. Many are also unaware they have it—until their eyesight is already compromised.What is Diabetic Retinopathy?Diabetic retinopathy often progresses painlessly and without any signs, at least in its early stages. That's why regular eye exams are so important—despite your vision appearing completely normal.If left uncontrolled, diabetic retinopathy may result in impaired or even complete vision loss. Worse, the damage tends to be permanent. Early detection and therapy can slow or even prevent progression, but the secret is to be vigilant and preventive. Early Warning Signs of Diabetes In Your Eyes You Can't IgnoreFloatersTiny specks, cobwebs, or worm-like forms floating in your line of sight are usually harmless. But a sudden proliferation of floaters—particularly if there's blurred or obscured vision—may indicate bleeding into the retina, a symptom of diabetic retinopathy.Dark SpotsAny dimming of vision or blind spots, especially in the central visual field, are warning signs. These "blockages of vision" can indicate swelling of the retina or hemorrhaging—and need to be seen by an ophthalmologist right away.Blurred VisionChanges in blood sugar levels can disrupt your eye's ability to focus, causing fleeting or ongoing blurring. This can make it harder to read, drive, or identify faces and can continue to get worse if left unchecked.Vision Loss or ShadowsPartial blindness, i.e., reduced peripheral vision or inability to see in dim light, can be a sign of advanced retinopathy or retinal detachment. Vision can even black out for a short time—a warning of extreme vascular damage.If you have any of these symptoms, even if you don't have diabetes, it is important to consult an eye care professional immediately.What Causes Diabetic Eye Damage?Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood glucose levels start damaging the tiny blood vessels of the retina—the light-sensitive nerve tissue at the back of the eye. The vessels can become clogged, leak fluid or blood, or cause new and fragile, abnormal vessels to grow through a process known as neovascularization. This cascade can result in swelling, inflammation, scarring, and, eventually, retinal and optic nerve damage. In bad cases, the retina can come loose or fluid will pool in the macula (the retina's center portion), producing a condition called macular edema. These issues can lead to permanent loss of vision if left untreated.Even though any diabetic is susceptible to developing diabetic retinopathy, there are some populations that are particularly at risk. These include those with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, especially those with poorly managed blood glucose levels. Pregnant women who develop gestational diabetes and individuals who have had diabetes for longer than five to ten years have a higher risk of retinal complications. Those with coexisting conditions like high blood pressure or elevated cholesterol are at even greater risk, as these issues can accelerate the damage to blood vessels in the eyes. Research indicates that up to 75% of people with Type 1 diabetes will develop some form of retinopathy, while approximately 50% of individuals with Type 2 diabetes show signs—often within the first decade following diagnosis.Can Diabetic Retinopathy Be Cured?Regrettably, diabetic retinopathy has no cure. The condition can be prevented from worsening if intervention is made early. Thanks to the advancements in medical technology, a number of treatment avenues can be employed. Anti-VEGF injections are usually used to prevent abnormal vessels from growing on the retina. Laser therapy is also an effective method that involves destroying leaking vessels and preventing vision loss. In more serious instances, vitrectomy surgery might be necessary to eliminate scarring tissue or blood within the eye. Most importantly, the most important thing is to control diabetes properly—adhering to healthy blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol can go a long way in preventing serious eye complications in the long run.Protect Your Vision with These 3 Non-Negotiable StepsIf you’ve noticed floaters, blurriness, or dark spots, don’t dismiss them. These could be more than visual annoyances—they might be early cries for help from your body. Although it's clear that preventive care, lifestyle changes, and monitoring are your best weapons against diabetes-related blindness.1. Prioritize Lifestyle InterventionsExercise, proper diet, and weight control are important. Include low-impact activity such as walking, yoga, or swimming. Follow a diet with high fiber, antioxidants, and whole grains and reduce saturated fats and refined carbohydrates.2. Monitor Blood Sugar and A1C LevelsRegular blood sugar checks and routine monitoring of A1C levels (which measure average glucose over three months) can help you detect and correct abnormal trends. Aim for an A1C below 7%, or as recommended by your healthcare provider.3. Don’t Skip Eye ExamsYour diabetes care regimen should include a dilated eye exam once a year. These tests alone can detect early signs of diabetic retinopathy. More frequent examinations may be warranted if risks or symptoms rise.Your vision is not simply a measure of how well you see—it's literally a window to your overall health. In some cases, eye problems might be the first sign that you have diabetes. That's why receiving regular eye exams—even in the absence of obvious symptoms—is a key component of preventive care.

first sign of diabetes might show up in your eyes—here’s what to look for

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A new study has found that teenagers who are "night owls"—meaning they prefer to stay up late and wake up later—tend to act more on impulse, sometimes in ways that aren't good for them. This is different from "early bird" teens who like to go to bed and wake up early. These new findings will be shared at an upcoming big meeting for sleep doctors, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM). 

<h2><span rel="noindex">Impulsivity Not Linked to Body Clocks</span> </h2>

You might think that acting on impulse has something to do with a teen's internal body clock, which tells them when to sleep and wake up. This clock is managed by a hormone called melatonin. However, this study found something surprising: the teens' impulsivity wasn't connected to their melatonin levels at all. 

Instead, how impulsive a teen was seemed to be linked to whether they said they preferred staying up late. Experts noted there was no strong connection between melatonin levels and impulsivity, suggesting that other psychological or behavioral factors might be influencing both a teen's impulsiveness and their desire to be a night owl, apart from their body's internal clock. 

<h2>How the Study Was Done and What They Saw </h2>

For this study, researchers looked at information from 210 teenagers. The teens filled out questionnaires to describe how impulsive they were and what their preferred sleep habits were. They also gave saliva samples to check their melatonin levels and wore a special wristband for a week to keep track of their sleep. 

The study showed that teens who liked staying up late were more likely to act without thinking, especially when they were feeling negative emotions. These teens also tended to give up easily on tough tasks instead of trying to stick with them. 

<h2>Why This Matters and What Parents Can Do </h2>

Acting on impulse can lead to serious problems, like using alcohol or drugs. Because of this, the researchers believe that parents might be able to help their teens by encouraging them to go to bed and wake up at more regular times.

This research is set to be shared at the AASM meeting. It's good to remember that information shared at these types of meetings is usually considered early findings until it's officially reviewed and published in a medical journal. 

The Canadian Paediatric Society explains that teens need extra sleep because they're going through a period of really fast physical, mental, and emotional growth. Your body and brain are doing a lot of work! 

You might think a little less sleep isn't a big deal, but medical research proves otherwise. Teens who regularly don't get enough sleep are more likely to struggle in school. Why? Being tired messes with your memory, concentration, and most importantly, your motivation (your drive to achieve goals). 

Over-tired teens are also more likely to be in car crashes and other accidents because sleepiness slows down your reaction times. Research also shows that not getting enough sleep can affect your mood. Simply put, teens who don't get enough sleep are more likely to experience depression, which is a serious health issue. 

<h2>Tips to Help You Get More Sleep </h2>

If you're constantly feeling sleepy, there are several things you can try to improve your rest. Start by creating a relaxing bedtime routine, making sure your room is cool, dark, and quiet, and always falling asleep in your bed rather than in front of the TV. Aim for at least 8 hours of sleep each night, with many teens needing 9 or 10, and try to go to bed and wake up around the same time daily, even on weekends (staying within 2-4 hours of your weekday wake-up). Expose yourself to morning light right after waking and exercise daily, but avoid intense workouts close to bedtime. 

teen health

teenagers and impulsiveness

Impulsive Teens  and sleep health

sleep health

Impulsivity Not Linked to Body Clocks

teens who preferred staying up late

A new study has found that teenagers who are "night owls"—meaning they prefer to stay up late and wake up later—tend to act more on impulse, sometimes in ways that aren't good for them. This is different from "early bird" teens who like to go to bed and wake up early. These new findings will be shared at an upcoming big meeting for sleep doctors, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM). Impulsivity Not Linked to Body Clocks You might think that acting on impulse has something to do with a teen's internal body clock, which tells them when to sleep and wake up. This clock is managed by a hormone called melatonin. However, this study found something surprising: the teens' impulsivity wasn't connected to their melatonin levels at all. Instead, how impulsive a teen was seemed to be linked to whether they said they preferred staying up late. Experts noted there was no strong connection between melatonin levels and impulsivity, suggesting that other psychological or behavioral factors might be influencing both a teen's impulsiveness and their desire to be a night owl, apart from their body's internal clock. How the Study Was Done and What They Saw For this study, researchers looked at information from 210 teenagers. The teens filled out questionnaires to describe how impulsive they were and what their preferred sleep habits were. They also gave saliva samples to check their melatonin levels and wore a special wristband for a week to keep track of their sleep. The study showed that teens who liked staying up late were more likely to act without thinking, especially when they were feeling negative emotions. These teens also tended to give up easily on tough tasks instead of trying to stick with them. Why This Matters and What Parents Can Do Acting on impulse can lead to serious problems, like using alcohol or drugs. Because of this, the researchers believe that parents might be able to help their teens by encouraging them to go to bed and wake up at more regular times.This research is set to be shared at the AASM meeting. It's good to remember that information shared at these types of meetings is usually considered early findings until it's officially reviewed and published in a medical journal. Why Do Teens Need More Sleep? The Canadian Paediatric Society explains that teens need extra sleep because they're going through a period of really fast physical, mental, and emotional growth. Your body and brain are doing a lot of work! You might think a little less sleep isn't a big deal, but medical research proves otherwise. Teens who regularly don't get enough sleep are more likely to struggle in school. Why? Being tired messes with your memory, concentration, and most importantly, your motivation (your drive to achieve goals). Over-tired teens are also more likely to be in car crashes and other accidents because sleepiness slows down your reaction times. Research also shows that not getting enough sleep can affect your mood. Simply put, teens who don't get enough sleep are more likely to experience depression, which is a serious health issue. Tips to Help You Get More Sleep If you're constantly feeling sleepy, there are several things you can try to improve your rest. Start by creating a relaxing bedtime routine, making sure your room is cool, dark, and quiet, and always falling asleep in your bed rather than in front of the TV. Aim for at least 8 hours of sleep each night, with many teens needing 9 or 10, and try to go to bed and wake up around the same time daily, even on weekends (staying within 2-4 hours of your weekday wake-up). Expose yourself to morning light right after waking and exercise daily, but avoid intense workouts close to bedtime. 

impulsive teens may not be like this due to their choices, this could be the reason why

Tanya Dutt

US Faces Biggest Measles Spike In Three Decades- What’s Driving The Surge?

US Faces Biggest Measles Spike in Three Decades—What’s Driving the Surge?

2 Infants Died Of Whooping Cough In Kentucky, Health Officials Report; Who Should Get A Booster Shot?

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The United States is experiencing its largest and most significant measles outbreak in over 30 years. With 1,168 cases confirmed in 34 states through early June 2025, the country is poised to exceed the 2019 outbreak total of 1,274, putting the measles elimination status America gained in 2000 at risk.

The recent surge is more than four times the number of cases that were reported in 2024 (285 cases), an alarming trend that public health officials warn can be exacerbated if not addressed immediately.

As of data provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), measles have already been reported in 34 states, which include densely populated areas like California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois, as well as relatively more rural states like South Dakota, Montana, and Vermont. Particularly, Texas registers 742 cases, with almost 100 hospitalizations, though the transmission there has dwindled in recent weeks.

The CDC has identified 17 separate outbreaks, a rapid increase from the 16 that occurred throughout all of 2024. The outbreaks have caused 89% of all reported cases of measles this year, indicating that clustered exposures — frequently due to travel or regional vaccine refusal — are responsible for driving the surge.

The demographic statistics tell an unmistakable story of vulnerability:

<ul><li>5 to 19 years of age comprise 38% of total cases</li><li>Adults comprise 33%</li><li>Children under the age of 5 years comprise 29%</li></ul>

Alarmed, 95% of cases were either unvaccinated or their vaccination history was unknown. Just 3% of individuals who were infected had both doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Three fatalities have already been confirmed: two in unvaccinated school-age children in Texas with no pre-existing health condition, and one in New Mexico, that of an unvaccinated adult. These sad incidents highlight how dangerous the illness can be, particularly when preventable by vaccination.

<h2>Is Decreasing Vaccination Rates Spurring the Surge?</h2>

The CDC advises two MMR doses—one at 12 to 15 months, and a second at 4 to 6 years. The two-dose regimen is 97% effective against measles. However, coverage is falling below thresholds critical to herd immunity:

Only 92.7% of kindergartners across the country got both doses of MMR in the 2023–2024 school year.

This is down from 93.1% the year before and 95.2% in 2019–2020 (pre-pandemic levels).

In some communities, coverage falls well short of herd immunity levels, allowing outbreaks to take hold.

Routine immunization programs were severely disrupted during the pandemic years, and residual vaccine hesitancy driven by misinformation has widened the gap further.

<h2>How International Travel and Global Outbreaks Are Contributing?</h2>

This year's surge has a very international element, with several new U.S. cases attributed to travelers returning from nations currently struggling with their own measles outbreaks. For example:

A teenage tourist in Virginia transmitted the virus to a child under 4 years old.

The same trend was observed in Georgia, where an unvaccinated local caught measles from an infected family member who was a tourist in a foreign country.

Across the globe, Canada is having a bigger outbreak with 2,755 cases, almost 2,000 of them in Ontario province alone. Sadly, the nation reported its first measles fatality of the year—a premature baby born to an unvaccinated woman. The UK Health Security Agency also made warnings prior to the summer travel season, warning that increasing case loads around the world could lead to further transmission.

Measles is one of the most infectious diseases known to mankind. The CDC states that a person infected with the virus can infect 9 out of 10 close contacts if the contacts are not immunized or are immune-deprived.

Symptoms of cough, runny nose, rash, and high fever may appear manageable—but the effects are dire. At risk are:

<ul><li>Pneumonia</li><li>Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)</li><li>Blindness</li><li>Death, especially among children and immunodepressed persons</li></ul>

Because of these risks, measles continues to be a high-level threat, especially where vaccination levels drop below herd immunity levels (traditionally deemed to be close to 95%).

<h2>Is There A Way To Slow Down The Upward Trend?</h2>

Federal, state, and local health officials are stepping up to:

<ul><li>Boost vaccination levels, particularly for school-age children</li><li>Initiate public awareness campaigns to counteract vaccine misinformation</li><li>Enforce stronger immunization requirements in schools and public institutions</li><li>Strengthen port of entry and domestic travel hub surveillance and outbreak response</li></ul>

Experts emphasize that measles elimination remains within reach — but only if immediate action is taken to address the recent downturn in immunization confidence and expand access in underserved communities.

The return of measles in the United States is a wake-up call, not only for this country but also internationally. A disease that was declared eliminated is now re-emerging almost entirely because of preventable reasons such as vaccine reluctance and international travel in a world that is still coming out of COVID-19's shadow.

The current trajectory of data strongly implies that, absent of immediate public health measures, the U.S. might soon record its highest number of measles cases for any given year since 1992—a chastening moment for a country that was once at the forefront of measles control.

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The United States is experiencing its largest and most significant measles outbreak in over 30 years. With 1,168 cases confirmed in 34 states through early June 2025, the country is poised to exceed the 2019 outbreak total of 1,274, putting the measles elimination status America gained in 2000 at risk.The recent surge is more than four times the number of cases that were reported in 2024 (285 cases), an alarming trend that public health officials warn can be exacerbated if not addressed immediately. As of data provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), measles have already been reported in 34 states, which include densely populated areas like California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois, as well as relatively more rural states like South Dakota, Montana, and Vermont. Particularly, Texas registers 742 cases, with almost 100 hospitalizations, though the transmission there has dwindled in recent weeks.The CDC has identified 17 separate outbreaks, a rapid increase from the 16 that occurred throughout all of 2024. The outbreaks have caused 89% of all reported cases of measles this year, indicating that clustered exposures — frequently due to travel or regional vaccine refusal — are responsible for driving the surge.The demographic statistics tell an unmistakable story of vulnerability:5 to 19 years of age comprise 38% of total casesAdults comprise 33%Children under the age of 5 years comprise 29%Alarmed, 95% of cases were either unvaccinated or their vaccination history was unknown. Just 3% of individuals who were infected had both doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.Three fatalities have already been confirmed: two in unvaccinated school-age children in Texas with no pre-existing health condition, and one in New Mexico, that of an unvaccinated adult. These sad incidents highlight how dangerous the illness can be, particularly when preventable by vaccination.Is Decreasing Vaccination Rates Spurring the Surge?The CDC advises two MMR doses—one at 12 to 15 months, and a second at 4 to 6 years. The two-dose regimen is 97% effective against measles. However, coverage is falling below thresholds critical to herd immunity:Only 92.7% of kindergartners across the country got both doses of MMR in the 2023–2024 school year.This is down from 93.1% the year before and 95.2% in 2019–2020 (pre-pandemic levels).In some communities, coverage falls well short of herd immunity levels, allowing outbreaks to take hold.Routine immunization programs were severely disrupted during the pandemic years, and residual vaccine hesitancy driven by misinformation has widened the gap further.How International Travel and Global Outbreaks Are Contributing?This year's surge has a very international element, with several new U.S. cases attributed to travelers returning from nations currently struggling with their own measles outbreaks. For example:A teenage tourist in Virginia transmitted the virus to a child under 4 years old.The same trend was observed in Georgia, where an unvaccinated local caught measles from an infected family member who was a tourist in a foreign country.Across the globe, Canada is having a bigger outbreak with 2,755 cases, almost 2,000 of them in Ontario province alone. Sadly, the nation reported its first measles fatality of the year—a premature baby born to an unvaccinated woman. The UK Health Security Agency also made warnings prior to the summer travel season, warning that increasing case loads around the world could lead to further transmission.Measles is one of the most infectious diseases known to mankind. The CDC states that a person infected with the virus can infect 9 out of 10 close contacts if the contacts are not immunized or are immune-deprived.Symptoms of cough, runny nose, rash, and high fever may appear manageable—but the effects are dire. At risk are:PneumoniaEncephalitis (inflammation of the brain)BlindnessDeath, especially among children and immunodepressed personsBecause of these risks, measles continues to be a high-level threat, especially where vaccination levels drop below herd immunity levels (traditionally deemed to be close to 95%).Is There A Way To Slow Down The Upward Trend?Federal, state, and local health officials are stepping up to:Boost vaccination levels, particularly for school-age childrenInitiate public awareness campaigns to counteract vaccine misinformationEnforce stronger immunization requirements in schools and public institutionsStrengthen port of entry and domestic travel hub surveillance and outbreak responseExperts emphasize that measles elimination remains within reach — but only if immediate action is taken to address the recent downturn in immunization confidence and expand access in underserved communities.The return of measles in the United States is a wake-up call, not only for this country but also internationally. A disease that was declared eliminated is now re-emerging almost entirely because of preventable reasons such as vaccine reluctance and international travel in a world that is still coming out of COVID-19's shadow.The current trajectory of data strongly implies that, absent of immediate public health measures, the U.S. might soon record its highest number of measles cases for any given year since 1992—a chastening moment for a country that was once at the forefront of measles control.

us faces biggest measles spike in three decades- what’s driving the surge?

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