United States: over 5,000 cases of measles reported since the beginning of the year, a level not seen in thirty-five years

The U.S. has reported over 5,000 measles cases in 2026, the highest in 35 years, driven by vaccine hesitancy. Most infected individuals were unvaccinated, leading to eight deaths, including young children. Experts warn that the outbreak, which began in Texas in 2025, is likely underreported, with estimates suggesting at least 10,000 cases nationwide. The resurgence threatens the U.S.'s measles elimination status, previously declared in 2000. Vaccine exemptions have increased since the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing to declining vaccination rates. Health professionals express concern over potential rises in other diseases due to this trend.