Current Measles Situation – United States
Measles activity in the United States has increased dramatically in late 2025 and early 2026. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the country has reported hundreds of confirmed cases so far in 2026, including large outbreaks in South Carolina and other states, and several new outbreak clusters across multiple jurisdictions. Weeks with more than 80 confirmed cases have occurred since late January 2026, and total confirmed cases for 2025 exceeded 2,200, the highest annual figure in decades. The majority of cases have been in individuals who were unvaccinated or had incomplete vaccine histories. This surge represents a significant rise over typical baseline levels seen prior to this period.
Measles Status – Mexico
Mexico continues to experience ongoing measles transmission, with thousands of confirmed cases reported since late 2025, especially in western states such as Jalisco, where incidence remains elevated. Outbreaks have not yet peaked in all areas.
Recommendations for Travelers and Residents
To reduce the risk of infection with measles, vaccination remains the most effective strategy. Public health guidance aligns with established immunization criteria:
• Persons aged 12 months and older without documentation of two valid doses of measles-containing vaccine (MMR) should complete a two-dose series spaced by at least 28 days.
• Infants aged 6–11 months traveling to areas with active transmission should receive a dose of MMR before travel.
• Adults born before 1970 without evidence of immunity should receive at least one dose of MMR.
Measles Elimination Status – North America
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has confirmed that Canada has lost its measles elimination status after more than 12 months of continuous transmission during a large nationwide outbreak. As a result, North America no longer holds the measles-free designation previously verified by PAHO. Canada’s outbreak began in late 2024 and expanded across multiple provinces, leading to sustained endemic transmission.
The United States and Mexico are also at risk of having individual elimination statuses revoked if uninterrupted measles transmission continues for 12 months. Ongoing outbreaks in under-vaccinated communities are being closely evaluated by health authorities.
Key Point:
Measles is a highly contagious disease preventable with vaccination. Travelers and residents should ensure up-to-date immunization before travel or participation in large gatherings.
