US Measles Cases Exceed 3,000 This Year, Highest Since 1991
Summary
Measles cases in the United States have surpassed 3,000 this year, the highest annual total since 1991. The CDC says most patients are unvaccinated, while childhood MMR vaccination rates have fallen below the level needed for community immunity.
Key Points
- The US has recorded 3,134 confirmed measles cases this year, the highest annual total since 1991.
- About 94 percent of confirmed cases are among unvaccinated people, and 248 patients have been hospitalized.
- Childhood MMR vaccination coverage has fallen to 92.4 percent for the 2025-26 academic year, down from 95.2 percent in 2019-20.
- The CDC says communities need vaccination rates above 95 percent to maintain protection through community immunity.
