U.S. Faces Potential Loss of measles Elimination Status as cases Surge
Washington D.C. - The united States is at risk of losing it’s measles elimination status in January, health officials warn, as outbreaks continue to spread across multiple states. As of November 12,2025,the U.S. has recorded 45 measles outbreaks and 1,723 confirmed cases this year, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The potential loss of elimination status-declared in 2000-comes as public health officials have linked outbreaks in West Texas to ongoing cases in Utah and Arizona, marking the first time outbreaks in multiple states have been connected.This linkage indicates sustained transmission of the virus within the country.
To determine the source and spread of these outbreaks, officials investigate each case, examining potential overlaps in time and location between infected individuals. Genetic testing is also conducted to identify whether the measles strains are related or represent separate introductions of the virus. Many cases originate with U.S.residents traveling to areas where measles remains endemic, explained Dr. Winter.
Currently, 92% of confirmed U.S. cases this year are occurring in unvaccinated individuals, with an additional 4% in those who have received only one dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. The CDC recommends children receive their first MMR dose at age 1 and a second dose between ages 4 and 6.
“As long as we don’t have that high rate of immunizations,” stated Hijano, “there will always be cases of measles that come from another country or another area that will find a place to spread.” Experts say a nationwide vaccination rate above 95% is crucial to regaining control of the virus and preventing further outbreaks.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to offer medical advice.
