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In recent days, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed 2,318 measles cases were reported in the United States for the year so far—outpacing the 2,289 confirmed measles cases for all of 2025. And just like last year, 93% of cases are among people who were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccine status, and 20% of cases are among children under the age of 5 years. So far, 151 measles cases have resulted in hospitalizations this year, which represents a slightly lower rate than last year. There have been no deaths associated with measles in 2026. Cases peaked in January, so it stands to reason that weekly case counts could climb again in the colder months. The country is experiencing the most measles cases in 35 years, representing the second record-breaking year in a row. Many health leaders have cautioned that the United States is in danger of losing its long legacy of measles-elimination status. The American Academy of Pediatrics posted a statement reminding clinicians and the public that measles is neither benign nor unavoidable. The academy further highlighted its recommendations for vaccination against measles.
No, it’s not over: Utah, Arizona, and Pennsylvania are some of the current measles hotspots, and clinical leaders should ensure their teams are capable of recognizing measles and have protocols in place to minimize exposure. Late last week, an urgent care center in Oregon’s Multnomah County was identified as a measles exposure site, according to the county health department.