Virginia Infection Prevention & Control Training Alliance (VIPTA)

This Valentine’s season is a good time to revisit one of infection prevention’s most reliable love stories: the partnership between measles vaccination and early public health response. 

In 2025, the United States saw the highest number of measles cases in more than 30 years, with more than 2,200 people sickened and three deaths reported. After decades of progress, measles is once again reminding us why consistent prevention efforts still matter. 

What to Expect: 

• CDC Measles Cases and Outbreaks:  Up-to-date national data on measles cases, outbreaks, and trends. 
• MMR Vaccination Coverage Gaps Map: New mapping tools that show where vaccination coverage is lower and where outbreaks are more likely. 
• JAMA Patient Page: What Is Measles? A clear, visual overview of measles symptoms and transmission, including images that show how measles rash can appear on different skin tones, supporting inclusive education. 
• Measles Myths and Facts Factsheet: A simple, evidence-based handout that helps staff and patients separate common measles myths from facts. 

How to use it: 

• Build a microlearning moment.
  Choose one resource per week to review briefly during staff meetings, huddles, or shift change to reinforce key prevention concepts without adding time burden. 
• Strengthen onboarding and refreshers.
  Incorporate these resources into onboarding or annual education to reinforce measles prevention, vaccination importance, and early response expectations. 
• Practice vaccine conversations.
  Pair the Measles Myths and Facts factsheet with role-play or discussion to help staff practice responding to common questions or misconceptions with clear, evidence-based messages. 

This Valentine’s Day, fall back in love with measles prevention and the tools that help keep everyone safer. 

Target Audience: Essential IPC Education Level