According to data released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least 1,136 measles cases have been reported in the United States since the beginning of 2026.

In just the first eight weeks of the year, the number of cases has already reached six times the typical annual total, putting the United States on track for another record-breaking year of measles infections.

U.S. public health experts warn that, based on current transmission trends, more deaths may occur in the future. More than half of U.S. states have reported cases so far, with at least three major outbreaks still spreading.

South Carolina has recorded nearly 1,000 cases since October last year, with particularly severe outbreaks in areas with low vaccination coverage. Although the recent growth in cases has slowed somewhat, state health officials say the outbreak is "far from over."

In 2025, the United States reported nearly 2,300 measles cases, the highest level since 1991.