US records worst measles outbreak in 35 years

3 min read

The United States is experiencing its worst measles outbreak in 35 years, with 2,318 confirmed cases since 2026 began, the CDC says, surpassing 2025's total of 2,289 cases and three deaths including two young children. Measles causes fever, respiratory symptoms and rashes, and can lead to pneumonia, brain inflammation and death. The disease was declared eliminated in the US in 2000 after vaccination, but cases have resurged amid falling vaccination rates and growing distrust of health authorities, with Robert F. Kennedy Jr accused of spreading anti-vaccine sentiment. Experts warn cases are underdiagnosed and expect more outbreaks and other vaccine-preventable diseases.

Measles cases reached 2,318 in 2026.