Measles has become a persistent public health challenge in the U.S. over the past two years. The spread continues with no indication of slowing down. As of July 22, Johns Hopkins University reports 2,295 confirmed cases in the U.S.

This number has surpassed the 2025 figures, which had 2,286 cases nationwide.

Health officials are warning that a traveler infected with measles may have exposed others at LAX and nearby hotels.

Cases have been reported across the country. Significant outbreaks have occurred in Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Florida, Virginia, Utah, Texas, and Arizona. In 2025, Texas reported the largest outbreak with 803 cases.

In 2026, the CDC reported 34 new outbreaks by July 17, while 2025 had 48 outbreaks. Most cases are linked to local outbreaks, with some tied to international visitors.

Data shows 93% of measles patients in the last two years were either unvaccinated for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) or had unknown vaccination status. Most cases involved children and young adults aged 5 to 19. In 2026, no deaths have been reported, unlike the three deaths in 2025.

Measles had been declared eliminated in 2000. The virus can spread through direct contact with infectious droplets or can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left an area.

Symptoms generally appear within one to two weeks and may include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. Several days later, red spots develop, starting from the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Individuals are most contagious four days before and after the rash emerges.

Community Protection

Dr. Marc Siegel, a senior medical analyst, highlighted the highly contagious nature of measles. “Measles is so contagious that up to 90% of susceptible people exposed will become infected,” he stated, underscoring the need for community protection.

Dr. Siegel noted, “We need a 95% vaccine coverage rate to ensure herd immunity.” With a two-dose vaccination nearly 100% effective, and natural immunity after infection typically lifelong, the goal is to protect those who cannot receive vaccines, such as immunocompromised individuals or pregnant women.

The U.S. risks losing its measles elimination status due to ongoing transmissions. It is critical to address both local transmission and cases from international travel. The CDC urges everyone to get two doses of the MMR vaccine as the best defense against measles.

Individuals displaying symptoms or suspecting exposure should self-isolate and contact their doctor before visiting medical facilities to prevent further spread.