A renewed surge in measles cases worldwide has prompted the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to issue a heightened health advisory, urging travelers to ensure measles vaccination before international travel. The advisory, published at the end of May, underscores an “ongoing risk” that leaves individuals vulnerable to infection in airports, train stations, on public transport such as airplanes and trains, and at crowded tourist attractions, highlighting a wake-up call for travelers everywhere, including those from Thailand.
The CDC’s updated guidance comes as at least 1,088 measles cases have already been confirmed in the United States in 2025, a dramatic increase when compared to previous years and a sign of the virus’ persistent threat. Of these, 96% have affected individuals who were either unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown, and at least 62 cases have been directly traced to international travel according to a CDC spokesperson quoted by CBS News (CBS News). Only 12% of these cases required hospitalization, yet the risk of transmission in transit settings remains high due to measles’ extreme contagiousness.
Measles is not merely a childhood disease but a highly infectious viral illness that can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and death. The disease spreads through coughing and sneezing, with the virus able to survive in the air for up to two hours after an infectious person has left the area (AOL). The advisory comes amid high-profile incidents, such as those at Denver International Airport, where several unrelated passengers contracted the illness during overlapping visits. Health officials in Colorado have since been tracing potential exposures on flights and within airport terminals.
For Thailand, a country at the crossroads of global tourism and a major source and destination for international travelers, the advisory holds critical significance. Measles is still present in parts of the Asia-Pacific region, and the possibility of importation through returning Thais or foreign tourists remains a challenge for local health authorities (USA Today). The Ministry of Public Health has previously noted sporadic outbreaks linked to unvaccinated individuals, particularly in communities with lower vaccination coverage or among persons who missed their childhood immunizations.
According to the CDC advisory, any traveler headed abroad—or hosting visitors from countries experiencing outbreaks—should ensure they are fully immunized with two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants under 6 months or people with certain medical conditions, are advised to postpone travel if possible (CDC Travel Health). In addition, local health professionals in Thailand are encouraged to maintain vigilance and quickly recognize symptoms—typically high fever, cough, red eyes, and a characteristic rash that spreads from the head down.
Experts warn that misinformation and vaccine hesitancy threaten global measles control. The World Health Organization reports that, after years of progress, immunization rates dipped due to pandemic disruptions and growing skepticism, resulting in renewed outbreaks globally (WHO Measles Fact Sheet). “Routine childhood immunization must remain a public health priority, especially as international travel rebounds,” emphasized a senior official from Thailand’s Department of Disease Control. “Each imported case increases the risk of a larger outbreak in communities where vaccination rates are not optimal.”
The stakes are particularly high during festivals, family reunions, and major events that spur mass gatherings and increased mobility. Thai cultural practices, such as frequent domestic and international travel during school holidays or religious festivals, may inadvertently amplify the risk if travelers are not adequately protected.
Historically, Thailand has achieved high national rates of childhood immunization, with over 95% coverage for the first dose of MMR vaccine among children. However, patchy coverage in certain regions or migrant communities, combined with the movement of people across porous borders, can create vulnerabilities. Past incidents, including outbreaks in children’s camps and among close-knit families, have demonstrated how quickly measles can spread if introduced into susceptible groups.
Looking forward, public health officials in Thailand are stepping up surveillance, particularly at international airports such as Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang, and at border crossings. Guidelines for clinicians emphasize early detection, prompt isolation of suspected cases, and robust contact tracing. There is also renewed public messaging via the Disease Control Department and travel clinics, urging both Thais and expatriates to check their immunization status before traveling—and not to underestimate a disease that, while preventable, can be deadly in under-immunized populations.
For travelers, practical steps are straightforward yet essential. Before traveling internationally, check documentation or request a blood test to confirm your immunity to measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases. Visit a travel medicine clinic if unsure, especially if planning to attend large events or visit countries with known outbreaks. If exposed to measles and unprotected, seek medical advice promptly—post-exposure vaccination or immunoglobulin may reduce the risk of severe illness.
Thai readers should also be aware of the ramifications of introducing measles into their communities—not only for personal health, but for vulnerable groups such as infants and the immunocompromised who cannot be vaccinated. By prioritizing immunization, adhering to public health guidance, and combating misinformation, individuals can help protect both themselves and society—and help Thailand maintain its reputation as a safe and welcoming destination for travelers from around the world.
For further information, consult the latest CDC travel health notices, Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health updates, or your nearest travel medicine provider. By taking preventive action now, especially before the busy travel season, every Thai traveler can help ensure that the risks from measles remain low—at home and abroad.