US Measles Cases Surge: 982 Infections Reported in 2026, SC Outbreak Worsens

The United States is experiencing a concerning rise in measles cases, with the national total reaching 982 as of February 19, 2026, according to data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This figure represents a significant increase, and the country is on track to surpass the 2,281 cases reported in all of 2025.

In its weekly update today, the CDC confirmed 66 new infections, and identified seven new outbreaks beginning in 2026, compared to 49 outbreaks that started in 2025. The vast majority of cases – 870 out of 982, or 89% – are linked to ongoing outbreaks, with 73 originating this year and 797 continuing from 2025. Six cases are associated with international travel.

South Carolina Remains Epicenter of Outbreak

The most significant concentration of cases continues to be in South Carolina, where the outbreak, which began last fall, has now reached 973 infections. Eleven new cases were reported today, bringing the total to 973. The outbreak is largely centered in Spartanburg County, accounting for 923 of the statewide cases, with an additional 35 cases in neighboring Greenville County.

Public health officials in South Carolina have identified several recent exposure sites, including two churches, a Costco, and a community college, all located in Spartanburg. The South Carolina Department of Public Health (SCDPH) emphasizes that vaccination remains the most effective way to protect against measles.

National Vaccination Rates Remain a Concern

The resurgence of measles is directly linked to declining vaccination rates. The CDC reports that only 10 states and Washington, D.C., currently maintain at least 95% coverage of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine among kindergartners – the level needed to achieve “herd immunity” and protect the broader community. Idaho currently has the lowest reported coverage rate, at 78.5%.

Nationally, 94% of individuals who contract measles are either unvaccinated or have an unknown vaccination status. This underscores the critical role vaccination plays in preventing the spread of this highly contagious disease.

Impact on Different Age Groups and Severity of Illness

While measles can affect individuals of any age, the CDC data indicates that 25% of cases in 2026 have occurred in children under five years old, and 84% of cases have been diagnosed in children and young adults through age 19. Although the hospitalization rate has decreased compared to 2025 – 4% of cases requiring hospitalization in 2026 versus 11% last year – the potential for severe complications remains a serious concern.

Fortunately, no measles-related deaths have been reported in the United States so far this year. However, three deaths were reported in 2025, the highest number since 1991.

Measles Cases Reported in Multiple States

Beyond South Carolina, several other states are reporting measles cases. Arizona has confirmed 49 cases in 2026, with four new cases reported this week. Virginia has seen a notable increase, with two new cases bringing the state’s total to 10, compared to only five cases in all of 2025. In Washington state, the Snohomish County Health Department has recorded eight new cases in the past three weeks, contributing to a total of 14 cases in the outbreak, and 26 confirmed cases statewide.

Florida’s case numbers are more difficult to ascertain due to limited reporting from the state health department. Various reports indicate between 64 and 92 cases in Florida, with some reporting at least 57 cases at Ave Maria University in Collier County as of February 14, 2026. Los Angeles County, California, has confirmed its fourth measles case of the year, involving an international traveler who may have exposed others.

Understanding Measles and the Importance of Vaccination

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash that spreads from the head to the body. Complications can include pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even death.

The MMR vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles, and two doses are recommended for all children and adults who are not otherwise immune. The SCDPH and the CDC both strongly recommend vaccination as the best defense against this preventable disease.