It may feel like we’ve already gone through enough health crises, but new data shows several diseases are quietly climbing in the United States, threatening to affect everyday Americans.
From vaccine-preventable outbreaks to unstoppable “superbugs” to rising respiratory viruses, the warning signs are real. Here are three major culprits and what you should be watching.
1. Measles Is Back with a Vengeance
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), measles outbreaks are escalating in the U.S. with 45 outbreaks recorded so far in 2025, compared with 16 in 2024.
A Reuters report noted about 800 cases in 25 U.S. jurisdictions as of April. What’s driving it? Declining vaccination coverage, increased exemptions, and pockets of under-immunized communities.
Why this matters: Measles is highly contagious and can lead to serious complications, especially for children and the immune-compromised.
What you can do:
- Check your family’s MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccination status.
- Know the symptoms (fever, rash, cough, runny nose) and seek medical attention if suspected.
- Be cautious in outbreaks and follow guidance from public health authorities.
2. Drug-Resistant “Superbugs” on the Rise
The CDC warns of a dramatic surge in dangerous antibiotic-resistant bacteria, specifically the NDM-producing carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (NDM-CRE). Infection rates rose more than 460% in the U.S. between 2019 and 2023.
Why is this so scary? These bacteria can resist some of the strongest antibiotics we have—making infections harder to treat and increasing risk of deadly outcomes. Experts link the rise to factors like antibiotic overuse, especially during the early pandemic.
What you should know:
- Practice good hygiene (hand‐washing, cleaning surfaces).
- Don’t demand antibiotics for viral infections—use only when prescribed.
- Ask about antibiotic stewardship if hospitalized—these infections often arise in healthcare settings.
- Stay informed when visiting hospitals or care facilities—resistant infections can spread.
3. Respiratory Viruses: Flu & COVID Trending Up
New data shows that the flu is already growing or likely growing in 39 states, and COVID-19 cases are increasing in about 20 states.
The CDC also predicts that the 2025-26 respiratory virus season could bring high hospitalization rates, especially if a variant with immune-escape properties emerges.
Take-aways for you:
- If you haven’t received your annual flu or updated COVID vaccine, now’s the time.
- Monitor local health data and adjust caution accordingly (masking, avoiding crowded indoor spaces if vulnerable).
- Keep in mind: respiratory infections can exacerbate underlying conditions (e.g., heart disease, asthma) and increase risk of hospitalization.
- Be alert for symptoms and act quickly, especially in high-risk groups.
Bringing It All Together
These three disease threats measles, superbugs, and rising respiratory infections share some common threads:
- Preventive tools exist (vaccines, hygiene, stewardship) but uptake or awareness is lagging.
- Vulnerable communities (children, immunocompromised, under-vaccinated) are disproportionately impacted.
- Early awareness and action make a critical difference.
Why It Matters
The rise of these diseases is more than a “health news” item it’s a potential personal, community and national concern. Schools, hospitals and workplaces may feel the ripple effects. Medical costs and disruptions could rise. And for individuals, being caught unprepared means higher risk of serious outcomes.
Your Action Plan
- Review your and your family’s vaccination status.
- Stay informed about local outbreak alerts and hospital capacity.
- Practice good personal hygiene and advocate for proper antibiotic use.
- Make a plan for a severe respiratory season know where to get vaccines, avoid high-risk settings if needed.
- Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about exposure, chronic conditions or symptoms.
We may think we’ve moved past major disease threats, but the surge of old-familiar illnesses and emerging threats shows we’re far from “done.” Staying alert, getting vaccinated, using antibiotics wisely, and taking simple preventive steps can help you avoid becoming part of these emerging statistics.
