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Measles Cases Surge to Record Highs in the US, Impacting Public Health Efforts

KVIA•Friday, July 24, 2026 at 3:07 PM•CNN Newsource

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The United States is facing a significant resurgence of measles, with cases surpassing any recorded since 1991 for the second consecutive year. As of mid-2026, over 2,318 cases have been reported, indicating a public health crisis primarily affecting unvaccinated children. Outbreaks that began in 2025 have continued, with South Carolina experiencing the largest outbreak in decades, peaking at nearly 1,000 cases. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for increased vaccination efforts and public awareness about the disease's contagious nature. Health departments nationwide are overwhelmed with contact tracing and outbreak management, underscoring the critical role of vaccinations in controlling the spread.

Key Details: • As of mid-2026, over 2,318 measles cases reported in the US. • South Carolina's outbreak peaked at nearly 1,000 cases, starting in October 2025. • More than 90% of cases are among unvaccinated individuals. • Public health officials emphasize the importance of vaccinations to prevent further outbreaks.

public-health vaccination disease measles outbreak

People & Organizations

South CarolinaAmerican Academy of PediatricsSan FranciscoUS Centers for Disease Control and PreventionSpartanburg CountyDr. Andrew RacineRev. Scott NeelyDr. Farrell TobolowskySan Francisco Department of Public Health

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