Measles Outbreaks Surge Across the US: A Growing Health Concern

The highly contagious virus is spreading rapidly, with over 1,000 cases reported in 2026, making it one of the worst years for measles infections in the US since 2000

Introduction to the Measles Outbreak

Measles, one of the most contagious viruses in the world, is regularly infecting people in the US again. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data, NBC News is tracking confirmed measles cases across the United States in 2026. The latest numbers show that more than 1,000 cases have been counted, making 2026 one of the three worst years for measles infections in the US since 2000. This surge in cases is alarming, especially considering that the virus was previously marked as "eliminated" in the US in 2000.

The Current State of Measles in the US

Measles case counts reached a 34-year high last year, and a surge in weekly counts shows the virus is continuing to spread this year. In the second full week of the new year, 295 new cases were reported. The disease epicenter is now in South Carolina, where the CDC has confirmed over 600 measles cases. As of late January, more than 500 people were in quarantine, and hundreds were infected in the state. The map tracking year-to-date new measles case counts reported in each state and Washington, D.C. will be updated regularly to reflect the changing situation.

Causes and Consequences of the Outbreak

Measles infection counts skyrocketed last year with 2,285 confirmed cases, the most reported since 1991. This comes despite the virus being marked as being "eliminated" in the US — a designation meaning it is no longer constantly circulating — in 2000. The US is in danger of losing that status following a year of continuous spread of the disease. Three people, including two young girls, died in the US from measles last year. The major outbreaks last year began with West Texas in February and spread to other areas, including the Utah and Arizona border in October. In all, the CDC recorded 49 measles outbreaks in 2025, up from 16 in 2024.

The Importance of Vaccination

Childhood vaccination rates have been backsliding, leaving communities vulnerable to this deadly disease. The measles vaccine was introduced in 1963, marking a turning point for the contagious disease, which used to infect hundreds of thousands and kill thousands in the country every year. The vaccine has been instrumental in controlling the spread of the virus, and its importance cannot be overstated. As the number of cases continues to rise, it is essential to emphasize the need for vaccination to prevent the further spread of the disease. By understanding the causes and consequences of the outbreak, and by taking proactive measures to prevent the spread of the virus, the US can work towards regaining its status as a country where measles is no longer a significant threat.

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