Warnings of infection spread: more than 5,000 measles cases in America

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed 6 measles-related deaths in the US during 2026, and cases exceeded 5,000 for the first time since 1991, in the largest outbreak in decades.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed 6 measles-related deaths during 2026, compared to 3 deaths last year, as cases surpassed 5,000 for the first time since 1991, with the disease continuing to spread across the country. The new tally comes amid the largest measles outbreak the US has seen in decades, as a regional expert committee prepares to review the country's status regarding the elimination of endemic transmission, a status it has maintained since 2000. The CDC noted that the death toll is subject to change as additional information becomes available. The CDC is working with the 'Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists' to develop a uniform definition for measles-related deaths. Data showed 5,182 confirmed measles cases as of November 5, 2026, including 18 cases among international visitors. The statistics include confirmed reported cases and do not necessarily include all potential cases.