Story perspectives

U.S. Could Face 6,500 Measles Cases in 2026

By Drooid · Oct 17, 2026, 4:26 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

The United States is on track to record up to 6,500 measles cases in 2026.
Dr. Amesh Adalja of Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security projected 6,000-6,500 cases by year-end.
As of October 8, 2026, the U.S. had 4,080 cases, 78 % higher than 2025.
Pennsylvania confirmed five measles deaths, a sixth under review, and 1,222 cases by October 14.
Experts warned the U.S. could lose measles-elimination status at the November PAHO review.

1 of 1

Story summary

The United States is on track to record up to 6,500 measles cases in 2026.
Dr. Amesh Adalja of Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security projected 6,000-6,500 cases by year-end.
As of October 8, 2026, the U.S. had 4,080 cases, 78 % higher than 2025.
Pennsylvania confirmed five measles deaths, a sixth under review, and 1,222 cases by October 14.
Experts warned the U.S. could lose measles-elimination status at the November PAHO review.