The US recorded 2,318 confirmed cases of measles as of Thursday, marking the highest level since 1991, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This surpasses last year’s tally and is a significant increase in the number of cases.

Measles Outbreaks

Of the total, 2,302 cases were reported by 45 jurisdictions and 16 were identified among international visitors to the US. The CDC also reported 35 outbreaks so far in 2026, compared to 48 last year.

Measles is one of the world’s most contagious illnesses, often spread during times of high travel or in situations where unvaccinated persons are in close quarters. It can cause symptoms such as fever, cough, and a characteristic rash, and can also lead to severe complications like pneumonia and encephalitis.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.