Confirmed measles cases in the United States have reached 5,182 this year, according to data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This figure marks the highest annual total reported since 1991, as health officials grapple with a surge in infections across 45 states and Washington, D.C. State health departments have reported a total of eight measles-associated deaths, a figure currently under debate at the federal level.
Children and Teenagers Account for Most Measles Cases
The current wave of infections has prompted concerns over the country’s ability to maintain its measles elimination status, which was achieved in 2000. Under current definitions, the U.S. risks losing this status if continuous disease transmission persists for 12 months. Members of the committee reporting to PAHO on behalf of the U.S. include Noel Brewer, who serves as the committee chair.
Data indicates that children and teenagers are the most affected demographic, accounting for approximately 59 percent of all confirmed cases. Children between the ages of five and 19 account for 2,104 cases, while children younger than five account for 908 cases. Adults aged 20 and older account for 2,132 cases.
Unvaccinated Individuals Comprise Most Infections
The rise in cases coincides with a decline in childhood immunization coverage. According to CDC findings, immunization coverage for kindergarteners in the U.S. fell from 95.2 percent in the 2019-2020 school year to 92.4 percent during the 2025-2026 school year.
According to federal data, 96 percent of infected individuals are either unvaccinated or have an unknown vaccination status. While two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97 percent effective, the CDC notes that even among those who received the recommended two doses, 2 percent of cases have been recorded. Approximately 11 percent of all patients have required hospitalization this year, including more than 1 in 10 children under age five.
Disputed Mortality Figures
A disagreement has emerged between federal and state officials regarding the classification of measles-related deaths. Pennsylvania officials have confirmed six deaths, while New York and Wisconsin have each reported one, bringing the state-reported total to eight. The CDC is currently collaborating with the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists to establish a standardized definition for measles-associated fatalities.
The federal count has been a point of contention between Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has questioned whether measles had caused or contributed to the fatalities.
Transmissible Virus Complicates Hospital Operations
The high transmissibility of the virus is complicating hospital operations. Lisa McHugh, the state epidemiologist of Pennsylvania, is currently serving as the incident manager for the state’s measles response. Experts like Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), and Charlotte Moser, co-director of the same center, emphasize the role of community immunity in addressing measles.
Historical data shows the severity of vaccine-preventable diseases. Statistics from the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases indicate that in the span between 1965 and 1966, over 11,000 expectant mothers suffered pregnancy loss and 20,000 infants were delivered with congenital rubella syndrome. Modern complications from measles, as described by infectious disease experts, can include short-term issues like diarrhea and ear infections, as well as encephalitis and death.
Next Steps for Families
Individuals seeking information about the measles vaccine or concerned about potential exposure are encouraged to speak directly with a trusted doctor to determine the appropriate course of action for themselves and their families.
Earlier coverage: US Measles Cases Surpass 5,000 Across 45 States, CDC Reports
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