US Measles Cases Top 1000 in Early 2026 Due to Low Vaccination Rates

US measles cases have passed 1,000 in early 2026, the highest in five years. This is a big jump from last year's 2,281 cases.
By Newsroom | Health, United States |

Early 2026 Sees Significant Increase in Measles Infections Across the Nation

The United States is confronting a substantial rise in measles cases early in 2026, with numbers nearing 1,000 in the first two months. This surge marks a significant public health concern, as the nation grapples with the potential return of a disease once declared eliminated. The current outbreak is notable for its geographical spread, impacting numerous states and raising alarms about community transmission, particularly in areas with lower vaccination rates.

U.S. closes in on 1,000 measles cases in first two months of 2026 - 1

National Measles Landscape in Early 2026

As of the latest reports, the U.S. has recorded over 1,000 measles cases, a threshold not crossed in five years. This figure represents a sharp increase compared to previous periods.

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  • Geographic Spread: Cases have been confirmed in 26 states and 31 jurisdictions, indicating a broad national reach.

  • Recent Activity: At least 72 new measles cases were confirmed in the week preceding the most recent reports.

  • Comparison to Previous Years: The current case count is on track to be one of the highest in recent history, with last year, 2025, recording 2,281 cases, the highest in 33 years.

  • International Travelers: A small number of cases, just six, have been linked to international travelers so far this year.

Factors Contributing to the Measles Surge

The increasing number of measles cases is closely linked to factors affecting community immunity. Health officials point to several key drivers:

U.S. closes in on 1,000 measles cases in first two months of 2026 - 3

  • Vaccination Status: The majority of current cases are occurring in individuals who are unvaccinated or have an unknown vaccination status.

  • Community Outbreaks: Measles outbreaks, defined as three or more related cases, are occurring when the virus enters communities with lower vaccination coverage. Some states have experienced multiple outbreaks, and single outbreaks can span several states.

Tragic Outcomes and Long-Term Risks

The measles outbreak has resulted in severe health consequences for some individuals.

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  • Fatalities: Sadly, there have been three confirmed deaths attributed to measles so far this year. One case highlighted the potential for delayed, severe complications, with an individual dying within a year of initial symptoms, even after being vaccinated as a child. In rare instances, people can develop dangerous brain inflammation 7 to 10 years after a measles infection.

  • Hospitalizations: While not all cases require hospitalization, some individuals have experienced significant illness, necessitating isolation for recovery.

Specific Outbreak Hotspots and Community Impact

Certain communities are experiencing a disproportionate impact from the measles outbreak.

  • Texas Outbreak: A significant outbreak in Texas, centered in a Mennonite community, has led to the deaths of two children and infected hundreds more. This outbreak has since spread to neighboring states, including New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Kansas.

Expert Concerns and Future Outlook

Public health experts are raising concerns about the potential for measles to become endemic in the U.S. once again.

  • Endemic Risk: Researchers suggest the U.S. is at a "tipping point" for the re-establishment of endemic measles, a quarter-century after it was declared eradicated. This suggests a shift from isolated outbreaks to a sustained presence of the virus within the country.

Evidence and Data Sources

Data for this report is drawn from reports by:

Used Sources:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many measles cases are there in the US in early 2026?
By early 2026, the US has seen over 1,000 measles cases. This is the highest number in five years and a significant increase, with 72 new cases reported in one recent week.
Q: Which states have measles outbreaks in early 2026?
Measles cases have been found in 26 states and 31 areas across the US. A major outbreak in Texas has spread to New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Kansas, affecting communities with low vaccination rates.
Q: Why are measles cases increasing in the US in early 2026?
The rise in measles cases is mainly because many people are not vaccinated or their vaccination status is unknown. Measles spreads easily when it enters communities with low vaccination coverage, causing outbreaks.
Q: Are there any deaths from measles in the US in early 2026?
Yes, sadly, there have been three confirmed deaths from measles in the US so far in 2026. Measles can cause serious health problems, including brain inflammation, which can happen many years after infection.
Q: Is measles becoming common again in the US?
Experts worry that measles could become common again in the US. The country is at a point where the virus could stay in the US all the time, not just in separate outbreaks, after being gone for 25 years.