CDC Confirms 982 Measles Cases as South Carolina Outbreak Hits 973
The United States is approaching 1,000 measles cases just weeks into 2026, according to federal health officials. The spike marks one of the fastest early-year surges in decades.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed Friday that 982 measles cases have been reported nationwide. That total is more than four times higher than this time last year.
Twenty-six states have recorded infections so far.
The largest concentration is in South Carolina, where the outbreak has been spreading since fall. State data show nearly 800 cases reported since January, bringing the total outbreak count there to 973.
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Utah and Arizona are also reporting continued transmission.
South Carolina state epidemiologist Dr. Linda Bell said at least 20 people have required hospitalization as the outbreak grows.
“These hospitalizations involve both adults and children,” Bell told reporters.
Health officials describe it as the largest single measles outbreak the U.S. has seen in a generation. The scale raises concerns about vaccination gaps and regional spread patterns.
The rapid acceleration early in the year suggests the outbreak may not yet have peaked.
Public health departments are expanding monitoring and containment efforts as case counts continue to rise.
More updates are expected as additional states report new infections.
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