Washington: The United States is facing a worrying return of measles, a disease that was once declared eliminated more than two decades ago. New cases are continuing to emerge across several states, raising concerns among health officials that the country could lose its measles elimination status if the spread is not brought under control.
According to recent reports, South Carolina has become the main hotspot in the current outbreak. Hundreds of cases have been confirmed there since early 2025, with many linked to unvaccinated children and young people. State health authorities say new infections are still being detected, and hundreds of contacts have been placed under quarantine to prevent further spread.
The outbreak did not begin in South Carolina. Health officials say it first took hold in parts of Texas last year and then gradually spread to other states, including North Carolina, Ohio, Arizona, Utah and Washington. Travel between states and low vaccination coverage in some communities have helped the virus move more easily.
Measles is one of the most contagious viral diseases known. Doctors explain that a single infected person can spread the virus to many others, especially in places where vaccination rates have dropped below safe levels. Most of the recent cases have occurred among people who were not vaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown.
Public health experts warn that the situation now goes beyond isolated outbreaks caused by imported cases. If transmission continues without interruption, the United States could officially lose its measles elimination status, which it has held since 2000. This status means the disease is not spreading continuously within the country.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported that dozens of new measles cases have already been confirmed in early 2026, with links to outbreaks that began last year. Officials caution that these numbers may rise as investigations continue and more cases are identified.
Health authorities are urging families to check vaccination records and ensure children receive the recommended measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. They stress that vaccination remains the most effective way to protect individuals and communities and to stop the virus from spreading further.
As the outbreak continues, officials say the coming weeks will be critical. Without a rise in vaccination coverage and strong public health measures, the return of measles could become a long term challenge for the United States health system.