Reported measles cases in the United States this year have surpassed the total recorded during all of 2025, according to a Johns Hopkins University tally cited in national reporting.
The university counted 2,295 cases as of Tuesday, compared with 2,288 during 2025. Utah had reported more than 500 cases. More than 90% of patients were unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status, and most were younger than 20.
Measles is highly contagious. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says as many as nine out of 10 people without protection can become infected after close contact with someone who has the virus. Symptoms usually include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a rash that spreads across the body.
Complications can include pneumonia, brain swelling and death. People who suspect measles should call a health care provider before arriving at a clinic or emergency department so staff can prevent exposure to other patients.
The CDC says two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles, while one dose is about 93% effective. Families unsure about vaccination records should consult their health care provider or local health department.
The case count was reported by The 19th. Because that article’s Creative Commons terms prohibit commercial reuse and derivatives, this is an independently written report rather than a republication. Health guidance comes from the CDC.
