The United States is grappling with a significant resurgence of measles, reporting a record number of cases in 2025. In the first two weeks of 2026 alone, at least 171 new cases have emerged, according to data published Wednesday by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, reflecting nearly the average annual total for the past 25 years since measles was declared eliminated, reports BritPanorama.
Current outbreaks are concentrated in regions such as upstate South Carolina and along the Utah-Arizona state line. However, the extent of these outbreaks poses a risk to the broader public, even in areas that have not reported high case numbers.
Dr. Linda Bell, South Carolina’s state epidemiologist, emphasizes the challenges associated with tracking exposures as cases multiply exponentially. Many individuals may be out in the community without knowing they are infectious, possibly leading to additional outbreaks.
In the past week, numerous public exposure locations have been linked to the outbreak in South Carolina, including schools, churches, and healthcare facilities. The health department does not always disclose these locations unless specific details about the date and time are available, according to Dr. Bell.
Recent exposures have also been reported due to travel. A family from North Carolina visiting Spartanburg County, South Carolina, was linked to potential exposure, as was an individual who traveled through New Mexico and stayed at a hotel in Albuquerque after visiting South Carolina.
Major international airports in the US have reported measles cases or potential exposures during the busy holiday travel period last month, including an infectious individual who recently traveled through major Northeast cities on an Amtrak train.
Dr. Jesse Hackell, a retired pediatrician and member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, indicates that the trend of falling vaccination rates has contributed to increased spread. “We’re going to see more of those exposures,” he warned. However, he noted that vaccination significantly reduces the risk of an exposure resulting in disease.
Exposed individuals are being encouraged to monitor their symptoms and contact healthcare providers, particularly if they suspect they have been exposed to measles. Public health experts advise that individuals should call ahead before visiting healthcare facilities to avoid inadvertently exposing others.
As the situation evolves, local health departments and the CDC are actively tracking outbreaks and communicating potential risks to the public. This vigilance is vital for managing the spread of the virus, with particular attention to maintaining high vaccination rates among children in locally affected communities.
Continued public awareness and responsive health measures will be crucial as the US navigates these ongoing challenges related to measles outbreaks.
