US Measles Cases Exceed 4,400 as Outbreak Spreads

The CDC notes 451 hospitalizations across the nation while vaccination campaigns are being scaled up.

Published On 16 Oct 202616 Oct 2026

As of 2026, the CDC has logged 4,410 measles cases nationwide, a weekly rise of 330, and has sent an investigator to Pennsylvania to assist in curbing the nation’s biggest outbreak.

CDC data also indicate 451 measles‑related hospitalizations this year. Children and teenagers aged 5 to 19 represent 42 % of cases, adults 20 and older account for 41 %, and those under five make up the remaining 17 %.

Pennsylvania has recorded 1,222 cases across 42 counties as of Wednesday, with 86 new infections reported since October 9, according to the state health department. The outbreak has resulted in 225 hospitalizations and five confirmed measles‑linked deaths; officials are also investigating a possible sixth fatality.

The CDC is deploying a “disease detective” from its Epidemic Intelligence Service to collaborate with Pennsylvania health officials on the outbreak response, following the state’s request for federal Epi‑Aid assistance.

To curb the spread, Pennsylvania has expanded vaccination outreach in affected areas, administering over 5,900 MMR doses at 202 pop‑up clinics since the outbreak began in late April.

On October 5, New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a statewide disaster emergency as measles cases climbed in neighboring Pennsylvania. The declaration, which runs through November 4, broadens the pool of authorized vaccine providers and grants nurses added flexibility to order measles tests.

According to CDC figures, measles vaccination coverage among U.S. kindergarteners dropped from 95.2 % in the 2019‑2020 school year to 92.4 % in 2025‑2026, leaving roughly 280,000 young children vulnerable due to immunization gaps.

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