US measles cases more than double as outbreaks spread across states

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 25 Oct, 20:56 · Archive

The US has recorded 4,588 measles cases in 2026, more than double the 2025 tally, with at least 43 outbreaks across the country.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 4,588 measles cases across the United States as of Friday, more than double the tally for 2025, with the vaccine-preventable illness spreading across at least 43 outbreaks. Pennsylvania has recorded 1,338 cases so far this year, the worst outbreak in the nation. South Carolina and Utah are also reporting large outbreaks, each with more than 500 cases.

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known to medicine. One in five unvaccinated people who become infected are hospitalised, and one to three in 1,000 die from disease-related complications. The measles vaccine is 97% effective at preventing the disease, with side effects typically limited to injection-site soreness and low-grade fever.

The CDC has reported three measles deaths nationally. Pennsylvania authorities have reported five deaths and are investigating a sixth. Official tallies are believed to represent an undercount, as the disease's common symptoms – rash, runny nose, fever and cough – may not immediately prompt people to seek medical care.

How it is being reported

• U.S. measles cases more than double what they were last year as outbreak spreadsPennsylvania is the worst hit state, with at least 1,338 cases of measles confirmed in 44 counties so far this year, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Health.NPR · 25 Oct, 20:35
• Additional 178 cases of measles reported by US health authorities amid outbreakCenters for Disease Control and Prevention reported 4,588 cases across the country, more than double the tally in 2025 Federal health authorities reported an additional 178 cases of measles in the US this week, as the vaccine-preventable illness continues to sicken people across at least 43 outbreaks. The new data reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) comes as experts criticize the agency for lack of transparency, and as health secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr takes steps to further upend US vaccine infrastructure. Continue reading...Guardian World · 24 Oct, 13:00

In this story: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention · Pennsylvania · South Carolina · Utah · Robert F Kennedy Jr

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