Archive · 29 Jan 2026
US at risk of losing measles elimination status
The United States is in danger of losing its measles elimination status because there are more measles cases than before.
This is happening because not enough people are getting vaccinated.
The Pan American Health Organization will decide in April if the U.S. still has this status.
Experts are worried because measles can make people very sick, and if more people get sick, it could be harder to control.
Some people think the U.S. health system is not doing well, and this could lead to more problems with other diseases too.
Measles cases are increasing in the U.S., with reports in nine states.
Vaccination rates are below the 95% target in some areas, contributing to the spread.
The Pan American Health Organization will review the U.S.'s measles elimination status in April.
Experts warn that the public health system is struggling, and outbreaks may become more frequent and intense.
Measles can cause serious complications, including blood clotting and immune system suppression.
- Who
- The United States
- What
- At risk of losing measles elimination status
- When
- Review in April
- Where
- Across the country, with cases in nine states
- Why
- Due to decreasing vaccination rates and increasing measles cases
- Current Measles Cases
- Reported in nine states
- Vaccination Rate
- Below 95% in some areas
- Review Date
- April
- Expert Opinion
- Public health system is struggling
- Potential Consequences
- More frequent and intense outbreaks
- Measles Complications
- Blood clotting, immune system suppression, miscarriages
- Endemic Status
- Achieved after one year of continuous transmission
- Expert Concern
- Unheard of in non-war-torn countries