US measles cases hit 1,842 in 2026: deepest post-elimination crisis

As of May 7, cases reported across 39 jurisdictions. Cumulative cases since January 2025 now total 4,130. 93% are outbreak-associated; 25 new outbreaks in 2026 alone.

अजय राज 08 May 2026, 11:06 PM • 1 min read • 1 views

US measles cases hit 1,842 in 2026: deepest post-elimination crisis — A vial of the MMR vaccine.

Atlanta, May 7. According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the US has recorded 1,842 confirmed measles cases as of May 7, 2026 — approaching the 2,288 total of all 2025.

4,130 cumulative cases

Cumulative cases since January 1, 2025 now stand at 4,130 — among the worst stretches since the US declared measles eliminated in 2000. The elimination announcement had said domestic transmission had ceased.

Spread across 39 jurisdictions

Cases have been reported across 39 jurisdictions; 93% of 2026 cases are outbreak-associated. 25 new outbreaks have been recorded in 2026 alone. The hardest-hit states are Texas, Ohio, Florida, and California.

South Carolina record

A record outbreak in South Carolina ended in late April 2026, with 487 cases total. It did, however, drive an 18% increase in regional vaccination rates.

Anti-vaccine movement impact

Experts attribute the crisis primarily to the "anti-vaccine movement". National two-dose MMR coverage has fallen from 93.6% to 91.2% — below the 95% needed for herd immunity.

Political climate

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has issued mixed messages on vaccination, drawing criticism from former CDC directors and the American Academy of Pediatrics.