Maps and charts show record number of measles cases in U.S. this year
Summary
The U.S. has seen the highest number of measles cases in over 30 years in 2026, with outbreaks spreading across several states. Experts say the rise is mainly due to lower vaccination rates, which puts public health at risk.Key Facts
- By mid-July 2026, measles cases in the U.S. surpassed the total cases for all of 2025.
- In 2025, there were over 2,200 confirmed measles cases, the highest recent number.
- The U.S. has held measles elimination status since 2000 but may lose it due to current outbreaks.
- Measles is highly contagious and can cause serious health problems like lung and brain infections.
- Vaccination is safe, effective, and prevents measles, according to medical research.
- Most measles cases are in unvaccinated people, especially in communities with low vaccination rates.
- Vaccination rates for kindergartners dropped from 95.2% in 2019-2020 to about 92.7% in 2023-2024.
- Herd immunity usually requires at least 95% vaccination coverage to protect a community.
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