Leisha Nolen

The U.S. has recorded more measles cases in 2026 than in all of 2025, with major outbreaks in South Carolina, Utah, and Arizona. Vaccination rates have dropped below the 95% threshold needed to prevent outbreaks, and experts warn official case counts are likely underestimates due to unreported cases and the virus's high contagiousness.

The U.S. has reported 2,318 measles cases in 2026, surpassing the 2025 record of 2,289 cases. Major outbreaks in South Carolina, Utah, and Arizona, along with declining vaccination rates below the 95% threshold needed to prevent outbreaks, have contributed to the surge. Undercounting of cases due to unreported illnesses and high contagion rates complicates tracking the true scope of the outbreak.

Utah's measles outbreak has slowed, but health officials warn of a potential fall surge due to the start of school and colder weather. Over 680 cases have been reported since June 2025, with the disease spreading across 22 counties, particularly in areas with low vaccination rates. The measles vaccine is 97% effective, but Utah's statewide vaccination rate of 87.2% remains below the 95% threshold needed to prevent outbreaks.

Utah has battled measles outbreaks for a year, with over 680 cases reported since June 2025. The disease spread across 22 of 29 counties, fueled by low vaccination rates, particularly in rural areas like Daggett, Duchesne, and Uintah counties. Measles remains contagious, with concerns of resurgence during colder months and school reopenings.

Utah has battled a measles outbreak for a year, with over 680 cases reported since June 2025, affecting 22 of 29 counties. The spread has been driven by undervaccinated communities, particularly in the southwestern and rural northeast regions, where vaccination rates have dropped below the 95% threshold needed to prevent outbreaks.

Utah has battled measles outbreaks for a year, with over 680 cases reported since June 2025. The disease spread across 22 of 29 counties, fueled by low vaccination rates, particularly in rural areas like Daggett, Duchesne, and Uintah counties. Health officials warn that falling vaccination rates and seasonal factors could lead to further surges.

Utah has battled measles outbreaks for a year, with over 680 cases reported since June 2025. The disease spread across 22 of 29 counties, fueled by low vaccination rates, particularly in the TriCounty region. Health officials warn of potential surges during colder weather and开学, despite the vaccine being 97% effective after two doses.

Utah has battled measles outbreaks for a year, with over 680 cases reported since June 2025, affecting 22 of 29 counties. Low vaccination rates, particularly in the TriCounty region, have hindered containment, and health officials warn of potential surges amid school reopenings and cold weather.