Measles Cases Surge in the U.S., Approaching 1,000 in Early 2026
The United States is experiencing a significant measles outbreak, with 982 confirmed cases reported in 2026 as of February 19th, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This figure represents a more than fourfold increase compared to the same period in 2025 and marks the largest outbreak in a generation.
National Overview of the Outbreak
As of February 19, 2026, measles 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. An additional six cases have been identified in international visitors to the U.S. The CDC has reported seven new outbreaks in 2026, with 89% of confirmed cases (870 of 982) linked to ongoing outbreaks that began in 2025 or 2026.
In 2025, a total of 2,281 confirmed measles cases were reported across 45 jurisdictions in the U.S.
State-Specific Hotspots
South Carolina is currently the epicenter of the outbreak, with nearly 800 cases reported since January, bringing the total to 973. At least 20 people in South Carolina have been hospitalized due to the virus.
Florida is also experiencing a rise in cases, with 92 reported since the beginning of the year, primarily concentrated in Collier County and at Ave Maria University near Naples.
Other states with significant case numbers include Utah (117), Arizona (36), and Washington state (24).
Clinical Considerations and Risks
Measles is a highly contagious virus that can lead to serious complications. More than 1 in 10 measles cases in 2025 resulted in hospitalization, primarily affecting children and teenagers. The virus can weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to subsequent infections. Rarely, long-term neurological risks, such as subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), can develop years after infection.
Vaccination Remains Key
Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles. The CDC recommends two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine – the first at one year of age and the second at five years of age – which provides 97% protection against the disease. Even as vaccine protection is highly effective, up to 3% of vaccinated individuals may still become ill in situations of intense exposure.
A significant proportion of those affected in the current outbreak were unvaccinated.
Looking Ahead
The current measles outbreak poses a significant challenge to public health. Continued vaccination efforts and vigilant monitoring are crucial to contain the spread of the virus and prevent further complications. The U.S. Is on track to surpass the 2,281 cases reported in 2025.