US CDC will not change measles response even if it loses measles-free status, director says

CDC Director Dr. Erica Schwartz stated the agency will maintain its current measles outbreak response even if the US loses its measles elimination status, a decision expected from PAHO soon. The US has nearly 5,200 confirmed cases in 2026 and 11 deaths since early 2025, with outbreaks concentrated in undervaccinated communities.

CDC Director Dr. Erica Schwartz said the agency will not fundamentally change its response to measles outbreaks even if the US loses its official measles-free status, a decision expected from the Pan American Health Organization in the coming days. The US has held that status since 2000, but many experts say it is likely to be revoked as the country battles the highest number of infections in more than three decades. There have been nearly 5,200 confirmed cases in 2026 and 11 deaths since early 2025. Schwartz pointed to "closely knit communities" with lower vaccination rates, including the Amish in Pennsylvania, as the primary source of infection. She also pushed back on reports that Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. had applied pressure on her, stating that he recognizes her role as CDC director. The article notes that Trump and Kennedy issued an executive order in August to break up the MMR vaccine into three separate shots, which doctors said would cause confusion.