U.S. Measles Outbreak Reaches 664 Cases, Highlights Vaccine Hesitancy

January 29, 2026 Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor Health

Here’s a summary of the measles outbreak facts from the provided text:

Key Points:

* Widespread Outbreak: The US is experiencing its largest measles outbreak, with cases spreading across multiple states.It began in Texas nearly a year ago (January 2025).
* Current numbers (as of the article):
* South Carolina: 531 in quarantine, 85 in isolation, 8 hospitalized. Doctors fear it will worsen substantially.
* North carolina: 7 of 8 recent cases linked to South Carolina.
* Ohio & Washington: At least 3 children sickened in each state.
* Arizona: 217 cases, 9 hospitalizations (outbreak started August).
* Utah: 210 cases (first case detected June).
* Texas: 762 confirmed cases, 99 hospitalizations, 2 deaths (outbreak officially ended in August).
* Serious Concerns: Experts are worried about the potential for the US to lose its measles elimination status. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) will review the US and Mexico’s status in April.
* Vulnerability: Children under one year old and those with health conditions are particularly vulnerable, even in well-vaccinated communities.
* Vaccination Plea: Health officials are strongly urging the public to get vaccinated, emphasizing that outbreaks will continue in unvaccinated communities and possibly spread to others.
* Hospitalization Rate: One in five children with measles require hospitalization.