The number of measles cases in the US has surpassed the total for all of 2025, with 2,318 cases reported as of Thursday, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Outbreaks in Several States
Major outbreaks in South Carolina, Utah, and Arizona have contributed to the high number of cases, with Utah reporting over 700 cases in the past year. The US had 2,289 cases in 2025, the worst year for measles in over three decades.
Experts say that the actual number of cases may be higher due to underreporting, as some people may not seek medical attention or report their illness. The CDC defines an outbreak as three or more linked cases, but by the time these cases are identified, the outbreak may have already spread further.
The decline in vaccination rates, particularly among kindergartners, has contributed to the increase in measles cases. National vaccination rates for measles, mumps, and rubella have dropped to 92.5%, below the 95% coverage needed to prevent outbreaks.
Concerns for Vulnerable Populations
Experts are particularly concerned about the impact of measles outbreaks on vulnerable populations, such as young babies, people with weak immune systems, and those who may not develop robust immunity from the vaccine.
Dr. Mark Roberts, a retired director of the Public Health Dynamics Lab, compared not vaccinating children to not wearing a seatbelt in a car, saying it puts not only the individual at risk but also others in the community.
Original reporting: WTVQ (Lexington) — read the source article.
