As of October 1, 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 3,887 measles cases across the United States. This marks a week-over-week increase of 228 cases, representing a 6.2% rise from the 3,659 cases recorded the previous week.
Measles Cases Spread Across 47 Jurisdictions
The federal agency tracked measles cases across 47 jurisdictions nationwide. These areas comprise Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, New York State, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
In addition to domestic reports, the CDC noted that 18 measles cases occurred among international visitors to the United States.
Active Outbreaks Fueling the 2026 Totals
Federal data shows 42 new outbreaks have emerged throughout 2026. Outbreak-associated infections account for 95% of confirmed cases, totaling 3,700 out of the 3,887 reported illnesses. Specifically, 2,316 cases stem from outbreaks in 2026, while 1,384 cases trace back to outbreaks originating in 2025.
Clinical Guidance on Measles Hospitalization
Younger clinicians may not have treated patients with measles previously. Clinical management considerations were discussed by Lori Handy, MD, MSCE, an attending physician in the Division of Infectious Diseases at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and associate director of the Vaccine Education Center.
Handy stated that patients who are dehydrated or experiencing difficulty breathing display key signs that hospitalization may be warranted.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Measles Data
How many total measles cases have been reported in the US for 2026?
The CDC reported 3,887 measles cases nationwide as of October 1, 2026.
What proportion of measles cases are linked to outbreaks?
Ninety-five percent of confirmed cases, or 3,700 out of 3,887, are associated with outbreaks originating in either 2025 or 2026.
When should a measles patient be hospitalized according to clinical experts?
Lori Handy, MD, MSCE, notes that hospitalization may be necessary when patients show signs of dehydration or have a hard time breathing.
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