Measles cases in US top 900 as CDC confirms infections in 24 states

(TNND) — Measles cases officially surpassed 900 in the United States on Friday as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed infections in at least 24 states.

The outbreak is largely driven by outbreaks that began in 2025 and are expanding into 2026, especially in states like South Carolina, Utah and Arizona.

South Carolina remains the largest outbreak site, with counts currently sitting at 616.

Most cases are in unvaccinated or under-vaccinated people, with children and adolescents making up a large portion of infections, according to the CDC.

Measles was officially eliminated from the U.S. in 2000, but if widespread transmission continues for 12 months, the U.S. may be at risk of losing its measles elimination status.

Public health leaders have been strongly urging vaccination with the MMR vaccine to reduce the spread, protect vulnerable populations and curb outbreaks. Most people who are vaccinated with MMR and MMRV will be protected for life.

The first symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes, the CDC reports. Tiny white spots may appear inside the mouth two to three days after symptoms begin.