Overview
- The CDC says the U.S. has recorded more than 1,600 measles infections so far in 2026, putting the country on pace to surpass last year’s 2,286 cases.
- Ninety-two percent of this year’s patients were unvaccinated and 94% of cases are tied to outbreaks, with 17 new outbreaks reported and many continuing from 2025.
- About 5% of 2026 cases have required hospital care compared with 11% in 2025, and no deaths have been confirmed this year after three last year; two MMR doses protect about 99% of people from infection.
- The Pan American Health Organization postponed the U.S. review of measles elimination status to November, and that status applies only when a virus does not circulate continuously for a full year.
- Physicians warn many hospitals have closed pediatric units since 2008, which could mean longer waits and thinner capacity if outbreaks expand and more children need care.