US Measles Cases Explode, Threatening Elimination Status

As of February 21, 2026, the United States has officially recorded 982 measles cases, a stark fourfold increase compared to the same period in the previous year. This alarming rise has led to outbreaks in 26 states, with significant concerns in Utah, Arizona, and particularly South Carolina.

The outbreak in South Carolina is the largest single measles outbreak seen in the U.S. in decades, with nearly 800 cases reported since January. State health officials have confirmed at least 20 hospitalizations, affecting both adults and children. This situation highlights the ongoing threat of measles, which can lead to hospitalization in over 10% of cases, predominantly among children and teenagers.

Florida is also experiencing a surge, with 92 cases reported this year, many clustered at Ave Maria University. Experts emphasize that while the measles vaccine is highly effective, 3% of vaccinated individuals can still contract the virus. The vast majority of cases, however, occur in unvaccinated individuals, underscoring the importance of vaccination.

Beyond immediate illness, measles can trigger long-term health issues, including subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a fatal brain inflammation that can develop years after infection. A recent case of a 7-year-old boy who died from SSPE in California, linked to an infant infection in Afghanistan, tragically illustrates this severe risk.