Measles cases in the US. (Image: Canva)
\n\nThe United States is dealing with one of its worst measles outbreaks in decades. The country has reported more than 5,000 measles cases so far in 2026, the highest yearly total since 1991. The rising numbers have also raised fears that the US could lose its measles elimination status, which it has held for more than 25 years.
\n\nAccording to an update released on November 6 by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 5,182 confirmed cases had been reported as of November 5. This is the first time since 1991 that yearly infections have gone past the 5,000 mark.
\n\nThe latest count is 330 cases higher than the week before. The CDC also reported 562 hospitalisations linked to measles this year, which is about 11% of all confirmed cases. Cases have been reported from 47 jurisdictions, and there have been 43 outbreaks so far this year. Around 96% of infections have been linked to outbreaks. Also, 96% of those infected were either unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status.
\n\nState health department reports show eight measles-related deaths this year: six in Pennsylvania, one in New York and one in Wisconsin.
Original source: https://www.timesnownews.com/lifestyle
