Measles Coding Considerations

by  Christine Geiger, MA, RHIA, CCS, CRC
Jun 9th, 2025

Considering the increase in measles cases in the United States and globally, it is a great time to review how we code for this condition. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data, updated on May 30, so far this year we have had 1,088 domestic measles cases, with three deaths.

These are confirmed cases reported by 33 states. CDC goes on to note there have been 14 measles outbreaks so far this year.

While the majority of the cases are in people 19 and younger, 32 percent of the cases are in people older than 20. Hospitalization was necessary in 12 percent of the total cases. While probable measles cases are being reported, the data CDC is reporting is only on confirmed cases. 

We are certainly hearing more in the news recently about measles, and the CDC has addressed some reasons why there is more measles activity. Interestingly, measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000. The CDC attributes this to a very high percentage of people getting the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine, with which we are all familiar. Currently, however, CDC notes that the U.S. MMR coverage among kindergarteners is now below the 95-percent target – and it is decreasing. The CDC also identifies an increase in global measles activity, citing more chances of an unvaccinated person infected with measles abroad returning to the United States. 

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This article originally published on June 9, 2025 by ICD10monitor.

About Christine Geiger, MA, RHIA, CCS, CRC

Chris began her health information management career in 1986, working in hospitals and as a consultant. With expertise in ICD-10 coding, audits, and education, she has contributed to compliance reviews and coding programs. She holds a Master's from Washington University, a B.S. from Saint Louis University, and has taught coding at Saint Louis University. Chris is certified in HCC risk-adjusted coding and is active in health management associations.