Additional Coverage:
Measles has once again become a significant public health concern in the United States, with cases continuing to rise over the past two years. According to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University, the U.S. had recorded 2,295 confirmed measles cases as of July 22, surpassing the total number of cases in 2025, which stood at 2,286.
While cases have been reported nationwide, several states-including Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Florida, Virginia, Utah, Texas, and Arizona-have experienced particularly severe outbreaks. Texas, in particular, saw the largest outbreak last year, with 803 cases reported statewide.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) latest update on July 17 noted 34 new measles outbreaks so far in 2026, compared to 48 outbreaks in 2025. Most cases are linked to local transmission, although some have been associated with international travelers.
Data shows that 93% of those infected in both 2025 and 2026 were either unvaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), or their vaccination status was unknown. The majority of cases have occurred among children and young adults aged 5 to 19. Fortunately, no deaths have been reported in 2026, whereas there were three fatalities last year.
Measles, once declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, spreads through direct contact with respiratory droplets or via airborne transmission when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. The virus can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after the infected individual has left the area.
Initial symptoms typically appear within one to two weeks and include high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. This is followed by a distinctive rash that starts on the face and spreads downward. People are most contagious from four days before to four days after the rash develops.
Dr. Marc Siegel, senior medical analyst for Fox News, highlighted the highly contagious nature of measles, noting that up to 90% of susceptible individuals exposed to the virus will become infected. He stressed the importance of achieving 95% vaccine coverage to maintain herd immunity, protecting those who cannot receive the vaccine, such as pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals.
“Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide nearly 100% protection, and natural immunity after infection typically lasts a lifetime,” Dr. Siegel explained. “This is not a matter of personal choice but of community safety.”
He also warned that the U.S. risks losing its measles elimination status due to ongoing local transmission, rather than just isolated cases linked to travel abroad.
The CDC continues to recommend that everyone receive two doses of the MMR vaccine as the most effective defense against measles. Individuals exhibiting symptoms or who believe they have been exposed should self-isolate and contact a healthcare provider before visiting a medical facility to prevent further spread.