A heartbreaking case in Los Angeles County has reminded everyone of how serious measles can be — especially for infants who are too young to get vaccinated. A child has died after developing a rare and fatal brain disorder called subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), which is linked to measles infections.
Health officials are using this case to urge parents and communities to take vaccination seriously, as the U.S. faces its worst measles outbreak in more than 30 years.
What Is SSPE and Why Is It So Dangerous?
SSPE is a rare but deadly brain disorder that can occur years after a person has had measles. It slowly damages the brain, leading to serious symptoms such as:
- Memory loss
- Personality changes
- Muscle spasms
- Seizures
- Eventually, coma and death
While SSPE affects about 1 in 10,000 people who get measles, the risk is much higher for babies. For infants, it’s around 1 in 600 measles infections — making it especially dangerous for those who are not yet old enough to receive the MMR vaccine.
Why Infants Are at Higher Risk
The child in Los Angeles was too young to receive the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine. The first dose is typically given between 12 and 15 months of age. Before that, babies rely on what’s called community immunity, or herd immunity, to stay safe.
Community immunity works when enough people are vaccinated, so the disease has little chance of spreading — protecting those who can’t get vaccinated, like infants or people with weak immune systems.
Dr. Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County’s health officer, said, “This case is a painful reminder of how dangerous measles can be. Infants too young to be vaccinated rely on all of us for protection.”
Rising Measles Cases in the U.S.
The U.S. is currently dealing with its worst measles outbreak in over 30 years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have already been:
- 1,454 confirmed measles cases in 2025
- Three measles-related deaths
Experts say the outbreak is being driven by declining vaccination rates, as well as the spread of measles from both domestic and international sources.
The Importance of the MMR Vaccine
Health experts continue to stress that the MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective. Here’s what parents need to know:
- First dose: Given at 12–15 months
- Second dose: Given at 4–6 years
- Effectiveness: Two doses offer 97% protection against measles
The vaccine not only protects your child but also helps safeguard those who can’t be vaccinated, like newborns.
Protecting Our Communities
Vaccinating children on time is the best way to prevent measles and its deadly complications like SSPE. As more people choose not to vaccinate due to fear or misinformation, the risk of outbreaks and tragic outcomes rises — especially for babies.
Doctors and health officials urge all parents to follow the recommended vaccine schedule and talk to their doctors if they have any concerns.
Let’s remember — vaccines don’t just protect individuals. They protect entire communities, including the smallest and most vulnerable among us.
