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Rising Vaccine Exemptions Raise Concerns Over Measles Outbreaks in the US

KVIA•Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at 5:33 PM•CNN Newsource

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A recent study highlights a troubling trend in the United States, where nonmedical exemptions for childhood vaccinations have increased significantly since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The median rate of these exemptions rose from 0.6% in 2010-2011 to over 3% in 2023-2024, with more than half of US counties reporting at least a 1% increase. This uptick in exemptions, often attributed to personal beliefs, poses a risk of localized outbreaks of preventable diseases like measles. Communities with high exemption rates are particularly vulnerable, as seen in Spartanburg County, South Carolina, where a measles outbreak has surged to over 400 cases. Parents are encouraged to stay informed about vaccination requirements to protect their children and communities.

Key Details: • Nonmedical vaccine exemptions increased from 0.6% to over 3% from 2010 to 2024. • More than 53.5% of US counties saw exemptions rise by at least 1%. • Spartanburg County, SC, currently has a measles outbreak with over 400 cases. • Parents should be aware of school vaccination requirements to avoid exemptions.

community public-health vaccination measles exemptions

People & Organizations

New MexicoSouth CarolinaAmerican Academy of PediatricsAlbuquerqueUS Centers for Disease Control and PreventionSpartanburg CountyDr. Jesse HackellDr. Nathan Lo

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