The United States is at risk of losing its measles elimination status as outbreaks continue to spread across multiple states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed nearly 600 measles cases in January 2026, with all but three cases reported in 17 states. The remaining three were among international visitors.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
The CDC's latest update highlights a significant rise in measles cases, with the South Carolina outbreak surpassing 847 cases since October 2025. The state reported 58 new cases between Tuesday and Friday, marking a rapid spread compared to the Texas outbreak, which took seven months to reach similar numbers. Dr. Linda Bell, South Carolina's state epidemiologist, expressed concern over the trajectory of the outbreak.
Deeper Dive & Context
Measles Elimination Status
The U.S. could lose its measles elimination status, a designation granted by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to countries that have gone a year without continuous transmission. The clock for the U.S. started in January 2025 with the Texas outbreak. PAHO's verification commission reviews epidemiological data, genomic analyses, and surveillance reports to determine if outbreaks are part of a continuous chain of transmission.
Policy and Political Context
The Trump administration has taken steps to undermine vaccine confidence, which some experts believe has contributed to the spread of measles. However, the CDC's update does not explicitly link the rise in cases to specific policies or political actions.
Public Health Response
Health officials are working to contain the outbreaks, but the rapid spread in South Carolina has raised concerns about the U.S.'s ability to maintain elimination status. The CDC's report underscores the need for continued vigilance and vaccination efforts to curb the spread of measles.