health
As measles outbreaks grow in the U.S., maps and charts show a record number of cases
Updated on: August 12, 2026 / 7:02 PM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- The U.S. has recorded the most measles cases so far in 2026 in over three decades.
- Outbreaks are spreading across multiple states, with the number of cases by mid-July already exceeding all of 2025.
- The U.S. is at risk of losing its official measles elimination status, held since 2000.
- Measles is highly contagious and can cause severe health issues, but is preventable by vaccination.
- Lower vaccination rates are identified as the primary cause for the increase in measles cases.
- Vaccination rates for kindergartners have fallen below the critical 95% threshold needed for herd immunity.
- Research shows no link between vaccines and autism, and vaccines undergo rigorous safety testing.