Human Hands with Painful Rash, Red Spots Blisters on the Skin. Health Problem. Measles virus Symptoms. Male Patient Arms with measles. Close Up. Banner, Copy Space. measles


U.S. measles infections are reaching record-breaking numbers, surpassing 2025 case surges. The ongoing outbreak places pressure on professional cleaning operations to enhance infection prevention protocols and ensure compliance.

A highly contagious disease, measles can infect 90 percent of exposed, unvaccinated individuals. In 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed 2,288 total cases, 90 percent of which were outbreak-associated. As of June, the U.S. reported 2,030 cases, spanning across 38 states, as well as Washington, D.C. This rise in cases amounts to a nationwide public health crisis spurred on by anti-vaccination sentiment.

With six-in-10 Americans concerned about the elevated risk of infectious diseases in public settings, facility management and building service contractors should review and revise building cleaning systems to mitigate exposure. Disinfection alone will not address this issue; indoor air quality (IAQ) monitoring and proper hand hygiene are essential practices to promote prevention.

Although the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends handwashing as the first line of defense, the measles virus can remain airborne for up to two hours. This indicates the importance of monitoring and upgrading ventilation and HVAC systems to support healthy and safe IAQ. Frontline staff should wear personal protective equipment (PPE) while also being mindful of workflow travel and glove removal to reduce contamination risks.

With summer approaching, travelling and public gatherings increase. Large events, such as the World Cup, will call upon public health officials and commercial cleaning executives to apply preventative measures to limit an outbreak. Facilities should be prepared to prioritize infection prevention and control measures as measles cases continue to surge countrywide.