Map Shows Measles Cases Across US as Figure Hits 35-Year High
Summary
Measles cases in the United States have reached their highest level in more than 30 years, with 2,318 confirmed cases so far this year. The rise is linked to lower vaccination rates and multiple outbreaks, especially among children and teenagers.Key Facts
- The U.S. has recorded 2,318 measles cases in 2026, the most since 1991.
- Measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, but outbreaks still occur when the virus is brought in from abroad.
- There have been 35 new measles outbreaks this year, with 93% of cases connected to these outbreaks.
- Vaccination rates for the MMR vaccine among kindergarteners dropped from 95.2% in 2019-20 to 92.5% in 2024-25.
- Herd immunity to prevent measles spread usually requires about 95% vaccination coverage.
- South Carolina and Utah have the highest number of cases, with 670 and 522 respectively.
- About 69% of cases are in people 19 years old and younger, who are more vulnerable to serious complications.
- Most measles cases come from unvaccinated Americans who catch the virus while traveling abroad, not from international visitors.
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