Measles has reappeared as a significant public health issue in the U.S. over the past two years. The spread of the disease continues at a concerning rate. A Johns Hopkins University tracker, which gathers local and state health data, reported 2,295 confirmed measles cases in the U.S. as of July 22. This number has surpassed the 2025 figure of 2,286 cases.
Current Situation and Outbreaks
Cases have been recorded nationwide, with major outbreaks worsening in specific areas. States like Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Florida, Virginia, Utah, Texas, and Arizona have experienced significant increases. In 2025, Texas reported the largest outbreak with 803 cases statewide. According to the latest CDC update from July 17, 2026, there were 34 new outbreaks compared to the 48 outbreaks in 2025. Most of these cases were linked to local outbreaks, while some were due to international visitors.
In both this year and last year, 93% of measles patients were either not vaccinated for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) or had an uncertain vaccination status.
Most cases occurred in children and young adults aged 5 to 19. Although there have been no deaths reported in 2026, there were three deaths in 2025.
Transmission and Symptoms
More than two decades after health agencies declared the disease eliminated in 2000, measles remains a threat. The virus spreads through direct contact with infectious droplets or becomes airborne when an infected individual breathes, coughs, or sneezes. It can stay infectious in the air for up to two hours after the infected person leaves the vicinity.
Symptoms typically manifest within one to two weeks. They include high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A few days later, flat, red spots appear on the face and then spread down the neck to the body. Individuals are most contagious four days before and after the rash appears.
Community Protection and Vaccination
Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, highlighted the disease’s highly contagious nature. He stated that up to 90% of susceptible individuals exposed to measles would get infected. Community protection through vaccinations is crucial. A 95% vaccine coverage is needed to ensure herd immunity. The herd immunity threshold depends on how contagious the disease is and the effectiveness of immunity obtained from vaccination or prior infection.
The doctor emphasized, “This isn’t about personal choice. It’s about community protection.” It’s essential to protect those who cannot receive a live virus vaccine, like the immunocompromised or pregnant women.
There is a risk of the U.S. losing its measles elimination status, as outbreaks suggest sustained local transmission rather than isolated cases linked to international travel. The CDC advises everyone to receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, considering vaccination as the best form of protection against measles.
Anyone showing measles symptoms or believing they were exposed should self-isolate and contact their healthcare provider before visiting a medical facility.
Angelica Stabile contributes as a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital.
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