America’s Measles Surge: Why Cases Are Rising and How to Stay Safe in 2026

The United States is facing its most significant measles resurgence in decades. After years of relatively low case counts, 2025 marked the worst measles year since 1991 — and early data from 2026 suggests the situation may escalate even further. Public health officials warn that without swift action, the country risks losing its measles elimination status, a milestone achieved in 2000.

This article breaks down what’s happening, why it’s happening, and what individuals and communities can do to protect themselves.

The Current Situation: Cases Rising Fast

As of February 5, 2026, the CDC has confirmed 733 measles cases across the United States. These cases span 20 jurisdictions, including Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Minnesota, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and others. Six additional cases were reported among international visitors.

This surge follows a record-breaking 2,255 cases in 2025, with nearly 50 separate outbreaks across 44 states.

By late January 2026, the CDC had already logged 588 cases, meaning the country reached 25% of last year’s total in just one month. South Carolina remains the hardest-hit state, with 467 CDC-confirmed cases and 847 cases reported by state officials. Utah follows with more than 50 confirmed cases.

South Carolina’s outbreak alone reached 876 cases by February 3, 2026 — the largest U.S. measles outbreak since elimination status was achieved in 2000. Some infected children have developed brain swelling (encephalitis), a rare but severe complication.

Where Measles Is Spreading Most Quickly

While cases are scattered nationwide, several states are experiencing concentrated outbreaks:

• South Carolina — the epicenter, with the largest outbreak in over 25 years
• Utah — second-largest outbreak in early 2026
• California, Florida, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Washington — multiple clusters
• North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Wisconsin — rising case counts

Many of these outbreaks are continuations of 2025 transmission chains.

Why Measles Is Surging Again

Several factors are contributing to the resurgence:

• Declining vaccination rates: Measles requires around 95% MMR coverage to prevent outbreaks. Even small drops create vulnerability.
• Outbreaks rolling over from 2025: Many early 2026 cases are linked to last year’s outbreaks.
• International travel: Several cases involve international visitors, showing how easily measles can be reintroduced.
• Misinformation and vaccine hesitancy: Public health experts warn that misinformation is eroding trust in routine childhood vaccines.
• Regional spread across the Americas: Rising cases in nearby countries increase the risk of cross-border transmission.

Public Health Implications

The current surge has several serious implications:

• Risk of losing measles elimination status: Sustained transmission for 12 months could jeopardize the U.S. status achieved in 2000.
• Strain on healthcare systems: Outbreaks require extensive contact tracing, isolation, school exclusion policies, and emergency vaccination clinics.
• Severe complications emerging: Cases of encephalitis in children highlight the seriousness of the disease.

How People Can Stay Safe

Even with rising cases, individuals and families can take effective steps to protect themselves.

1. Make Sure You’re Vaccinated

The MMR vaccine is 97% effective after two doses and is the best protection against measles. If you’re unsure of your vaccination status, your healthcare provider can help you check records or get revaccinated.

2. Know the Symptoms

Measles often begins with:

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• A rash that spreads from the face downward

If you suspect measles, contact a healthcare provider before visiting a clinic to avoid exposing others.

3. Avoid Exposure During Outbreaks

In areas with active outbreaks:

• Follow local health department guidance
• Avoid crowded indoor spaces if unvaccinated or immunocompromised
• Keep children home if they show symptoms

4. Stay Informed Through Reliable Sources

Stick to trusted public health authorities such as the CDC, state health departments, WHO, and PAHO. Avoid social media misinformation.

5. Support Community Immunity

High community vaccination rates protect those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants and some immunocompromised individuals.

The Bottom Line

Measles is resurging across the United States at a pace that has alarmed public health officials. With hundreds of cases already confirmed in early 2026 — and major outbreaks in states like South Carolina and Utah — the country is at a critical moment.

But the tools to stop measles are well known and highly effective. Vaccination, awareness, and community cooperation can halt outbreaks and prevent the virus from regaining a foothold.