Measles Cases Rise in 2026, Sparking Public Health Concerns

The United States is experiencing a surge in measles cases in 2026, with 982 confirmed infections reported as of February 19, 2026, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This increase raises concerns among public health officials, particularly as the country is on track to surpass the 2,281 cases recorded in 2025.

Current Outbreak Statistics

As of February 20, 2026, the CDC has identified seven new measles outbreaks this year, building on the 49 outbreaks that began in 2025. Approximately 89% of confirmed cases (870 of 982) are linked to these outbreaks, with 73 originating in 2026 and 797 continuing from 2025 . Six cases have been reported among international visitors to the U.S.

State-by-State Breakdown

South Carolina is currently the epicenter of the outbreak, with 616 confirmed cases as of February 12, rising to 962 by February 17 . Other states with significant case numbers include Utah (117), Florida (64), Arizona (36), and Washington state (24) . Confirmed cases have been reported in 26 states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Kentucky, Maine, Minnesota, Nebraska, New York City, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin .

Impact on Different Age Groups

The CDC reports that 25% of measles cases in 2026 have occurred in children under five years old, while 84% of cases have been diagnosed in children and young adults through age 19 . A significant factor contributing to the rise in cases is low vaccination rates; 94% of patients have been unvaccinated or have an unknown vaccination status .

Hospitalization Rates

While the hospitalization rate has decreased compared to 2025 (4% versus 11%), 38 patients have still required hospitalization due to measles complications in 2026 . No measles-related deaths have been reported in the U.S. So far this year.

South Carolina Outbreak Details

The outbreak in South Carolina is largely concentrated in Spartanburg County, accounting for 923 of the state’s 973 infections, with an additional 35 cases in neighboring Greenville County . Recent exposure sites in Spartanburg County include churches, a Costco, and a community college.

Vaccination Coverage and Herd Immunity

Nationwide vaccination coverage remains a concern. Currently, only 10 states and Washington, D.C., have achieved a 95% MMR vaccination rate among kindergartners, the level needed for herd immunity . Idaho has the lowest reported coverage rate at 78.5% .

Protecting Against Measles

Health officials emphasize that the measles vaccine (MMR and MMRV) is the most effective way to protect against infection and prevent further spread of the disease.