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US Faces Measles Outbreaks with Over 2,000 Cases Reported This Year

KVIA••CNN Newsource
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The United States has recorded more than 2,000 measles cases in 2026, marking the highest annual total in decades and jeopardizing the country's elimination status held since 2000. Key outbreaks are occurring in South Carolina and along the Arizona-Utah border, contributing to the rising case count. Vaccination rates have declined, with only 92.5% of incoming kindergarteners vaccinated against measles, below the 95% threshold needed to prevent outbreaks. The recent West Texas outbreak, which ended in August, resulted in hundreds of cases and three fatalities. Public health officials warn that without increased vaccination efforts, the elimination status could be at risk if cases continue to rise into January.

Key Details: • Over 2,000 confirmed measles cases reported in the US as of December 30, 2026. • Vaccination rates for kindergarteners are at 92.5%, below the necessary 95%. • Ongoing outbreaks in South Carolina (180 cases) and Arizona-Utah (350 cases). • Previous West Texas outbreak resulted in hundreds of cases and three deaths. • Public health officials anticipate more cases into January, risking elimination status.

public-health vaccination measles outbreak epidemiology

People & Organizations

ArizonaWest TexasUtahSouth CarolinaCenters for Disease Control and PreventionPan American Health OrganizationWorld Health OrganizationDr. Linda Bell

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