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US Loses Measles Elimination Status After 26 Years
14 Nov
Summary
- US measles-elimination status revoked by PAHO after 26 years.
- Over 7,500 US citizens infected, 13 deaths since 2025.
- Measles cases in 2026 surpass previous year's total significantly.
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has reportedly revoked the United States' measles-elimination status, a designation held for 26 years. This significant decision follows continuous transmission of the highly contagious virus within the country for over a year.
The Americas branch of the World Health Organization's reported action comes amid a severe measles outbreak in the US. Since 2025, approximately 7,500 people have been infected, with 13 fatalities. This period has seen a decline in vaccination rates and an increase in vaccine hesitancy.
As of November 9, 2026, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 5,182 confirmed measles cases across 45 states, New York City, and the District of Columbia. This figure surpasses the 2,289 cases reported in 2025, marking one of the most severe resurgences in decades.
Measles elimination is typically achieved when 95% of a population is vaccinated, establishing herd immunity. Two doses of the measles vaccine provide approximately 97% protection against the virus, which can lead to serious complications including blindness, deafness, brain damage, or death.
