Measles cases in the United States have increased sharply in 2026, driven by outbreaks linked to low vaccination rates among children and teenagers, with health officials warning of ongoing risks despite fewer hospitalisations.
Measles cases in the United States have climbed to 2,903 this year, according to the latest federal figures, putting 2026 well ahead of the 2,289 infections recorded for all of 2025 with three months still left in the year. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention says cases have now been confirmed in 47 states and jurisdictions, plus Washington, D.C., with another 16 infections reported in international visitors.
The outbreak has been driven largely by clusters, not isolated infections. CDC data shows 37 new outbreaks this year, and 94% of all cases have been tied to those outbreaks. The agency defines an outbreak as three or more cases in a community. Most patients have not been vaccinated: 94% of cases were among people who were unvaccinated, matching the pattern seen last year.
Children and teenagers account for a large share of infections. People aged 5 to 19 make up 47% of cases, while adults 20 and older account for 34% and children aged 5 and under account for 19%. JAMA reported in August that more than half of all cases were in people aged 19 or younger, underscoring how heavily the virus is hitting younger age groups.
There is at least one encouraging sign: fewer patients are being hospitalised than in previous years. The CDC says 8% of cases this year, or 223 people, have required hospital care, down from 11% in 2025. Hospitalisation among children under 5 has fallen from 18% last year to 11% this year. So far, the CDC lists no confirmed measles deaths in the U.S. in 2026, although it says it is reviewing two possible measles-related deaths reported by Pennsylvania officials in late August.
Health officials continue to stress that measles is highly contagious and can be dangerous, especially for babies and young children. Symptoms typically begin seven to 14 days after exposure and can include high fever, cough, runny nose and watery eyes, followed by Koplik spots and then a rash that spreads across the body. The CDC says serious complications can include pneumonia and encephalitis, or swelling of the brain, and there is no specific cure for the illness. Doctors urge people who think they may have been exposed to contact a healthcare provider promptly.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
