Measles cases surge with 39 new outbreaks in 2026
The CDC reports a 5.37% week-over-week increase in measles cases, with 39 outbreaks in 2026 and multiple deaths reported in Pennsylvania. Unvaccinated communities remain at highest risk.
Measles cases in the United States are surging in 2026, with outbreaks reaching concerning levels across multiple states. The federal agency reports there have been 39 new outbreaks reported in 2026, and 95% of confirmed cases (3,296 of 3,471) are outbreak-associated, according to the CDC's latest update.
The latest CDC numbers show a 5.37% increase of measles cases from week-to-week. In Pennsylvania, the fourth measles-related death was reported in 2026. Pennsylvania health officials also reported 2 measles-related deaths in babies. One was a newborn who died shortly after birth, and the other was a 6-week-old infant.
Measles is highly contagious and spreads rapidly in under-vaccinated populations. The disease can cause serious complications including pneumonia, encephalitis, and death, particularly in infants and immunocompromised individuals.
What this means for expats: If you are relocating to the US with children or planning to have children, ensure your vaccination records are current and that children receive the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine. Many US schools require proof of vaccination. If you're coming from a country with lower vaccination rates, check your own immunity status before arrival.
Sources
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