The U.S. has lost its measles elimination status after 26 years, as reported by the Wall Street Journal. This change follows a significant increase in measles cases, with over 5,400 reported in 2026, surpassing the previous year's figures. Public health experts link this resurgence to declining vaccination rates, which have fallen below the threshold necessary to prevent widespread outbreaks. The Pan American Health Organization confirmed that the virus has circulated continuously in the U.S. for over a year.
Key facts
- The U.S. lost its measles elimination status after 26 years.
- Over 5,400 measles cases were reported in the U.S. in 2026.
- The national vaccination rate among kindergarteners is approximately 92.4%.
- At least 10 measles-related deaths have been reported in 2026.
- Canada also lost its measles elimination status in November 2025.
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