The United States is experiencing a resurgence of measles, with cases nearing 1,000 for 2026, according to data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on February 20. The ongoing outbreaks, largely fueled by declining vaccination rates, are prompting concern among public health officials. As of February 19, 2026, a total of 982 confirmed measles cases have been reported across 26 states, with a significant portion linked to outbreaks that began in 2025. This increase in measles cases underscores the importance of vaccination as a preventative measure against the highly contagious disease.
The CDC’s latest update reveals that 89% of the 982 confirmed cases this year are associated with ongoing outbreaks. The vast majority – 92% – stem from outbreaks that initially surfaced in 2025 and have continued into the current year. Last year saw 2,281 cases, the highest number in decades, and current trends suggest the U.S. Is on track to exceed that figure in 2026. CNN’s tracking of measles cases reports 1,030 cases nationwide as of February 20, 2026, surpassing the 1,000-case mark significantly earlier in the year than in 2025.
South Carolina at the Epicenter of the Outbreak
South Carolina is currently bearing the brunt of the measles outbreak, with 632 confirmed cases reported by the CDC. The outbreak, which began last fall, has now reached 973 infections statewide, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Health (SCDPH). The majority of these cases – 923, or 95% – are concentrated in Spartanburg County, with an additional 35 cases in neighboring Greenville County. Exposure sites in Spartanburg County include two churches, a Costco, and a community college, raising concerns about further transmission.
The SCDPH emphasizes that vaccination remains the most effective way to protect against measles. Of the reported cases in South Carolina, 93% involve individuals who were unvaccinated. The outbreak disproportionately affects children, with 90% of cases occurring in this age group, including 26% among preschoolers. The SCDPH stated, “The measles vaccine (MMR and MMRV) is the best way to protect yourself and others against measles.”
National Trends and Vaccination Coverage
Beyond South Carolina, several other states are experiencing measles cases. Arizona has reported 49 cases for 2026, while Virginia has confirmed 10 cases, a significant increase from the five cases reported in all of 2025. In Washington state, the Snohomish County Health Department has identified 14 cases as part of an outbreak, contributing to a total of 26 confirmed cases statewide. Florida’s case numbers are more difficult to ascertain due to limited reporting from the state health department, with estimates ranging from 64, as reported by the CDC, to 92 by CNN. Discrepancies also exist regarding cases at Ave Maria University in Collier County, Florida, with recent reports suggesting at least 57 cases, while the university’s latest update cites 66 confirmed cases through February 14.
A key factor contributing to the resurgence of measles is declining vaccination coverage. The CDC reports that only 10 states and Washington, D.C., have achieved the 95% MMR vaccine coverage among kindergartners considered necessary for “herd immunity.” Idaho currently has the lowest coverage rate, at 78.5%. This decline in vaccination rates leaves communities vulnerable to outbreaks, as evidenced by the current situation.
Hospitalizations and International Cases
While the majority of measles cases are not severe, the CDC reports that 38 patients (4%) have required hospitalization in 2026, compared to 11% in 2025. Importantly, no measles-related deaths have been reported in the U.S. This year. Six of the 982 confirmed cases in 2026 are linked to international travel, highlighting the risk of importing the virus from other countries where measles remains endemic.
The CDC confirmed seven new outbreaks in 2026, compared to 49 that began in 2025. Of those affected, 25% of cases have been in children under five years old, and 84% have been in children and young adults through age 19. The agency continues to monitor the situation closely and provide guidance to state and local health departments.
The ongoing measles outbreaks serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination in protecting both individual and community health. Public health officials urge individuals to review their vaccination status and ensure they are up-to-date on the MMR vaccine.
The CDC is scheduled to release its next update on measles cases on February 27, 2026. Individuals can find more information about measles, including vaccination recommendations and outbreak updates, on the CDC website.
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