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Measles Making a Comeback in the US

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, February 16th 2026 at 6:01 GMT by Cleveland.com
      Locales: Colorado, Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, Washington, UNITED STATES

Monday, February 16th, 2026 - Public health officials are increasingly concerned over a growing number of measles cases across the United States, with recent exposures reported in major metropolitan areas including Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Chicago. While declared eliminated in the year 2000, measles is making a concerning comeback, prompting renewed calls for increased vaccination efforts and a critical examination of the factors driving this resurgence.

As of February 9th, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) documented 35 measles cases spanning 12 states - a dramatic increase compared to the mere six cases reported during the same period in 2025. This surge isn't simply a statistical anomaly; it signals a potentially significant rollback of decades of progress in controlling a highly contagious and potentially dangerous disease.

Understanding the Threat: How Measles Spreads

Measles is transmitted via respiratory droplets expelled when an infected individual coughs or sneezes. Its airborne nature makes it exceptionally easy to spread, even in crowded environments. The incubation period, typically ranging from two to three weeks, means individuals can be infectious before they even exhibit symptoms, further complicating containment efforts. Initial symptoms include a high fever, persistent cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis (red, irritated eyes). The hallmark of measles is a characteristic rash that typically begins on the face and spreads throughout the body.

While many individuals may experience a relatively mild case, measles can lead to serious complications, particularly in young children, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems. These complications can include pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even death. Prior to widespread vaccination, measles was a leading cause of childhood mortality.

The Role of Vaccination and Declining Rates

The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is remarkably effective in preventing measles. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are approximately 97% effective at preventing the disease. Despite its proven efficacy and safety, vaccination rates have been steadily declining in recent years, fueled by a complex interplay of factors.

Misinformation and vaccine hesitancy, often disseminated through social media and online platforms, are major contributors to this trend. False claims about the vaccine's safety and effectiveness have eroded public trust, leading some parents to forgo vaccination for their children. The lingering effects of debunked studies from decades past continue to influence some individuals' decisions. Accessibility to healthcare, particularly in underserved communities, also plays a crucial role. Financial barriers, lack of transportation, and limited access to information can all hinder vaccination efforts.

Furthermore, a decline in public awareness about the severity of measles, coupled with a generation that has not experienced its widespread impact, has contributed to complacency. Many individuals falsely believe that because measles was previously eliminated in the U.S., it no longer poses a threat.

Expert Concerns and Future Outlook

"Measles is incredibly contagious," emphasizes Dr. Amesh Adalja, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. "Its resurgence serves as a stark reminder that maintaining high vaccination rates is paramount to safeguarding public health. We are seeing the consequences of eroded immunity in our communities."

Public health experts warn that if vaccination rates don't improve, the U.S. could see increasingly large and widespread measles outbreaks. This could overwhelm healthcare systems, particularly during flu season or other times of increased respiratory illness. The potential economic impact of widespread outbreaks, including lost productivity and healthcare costs, is also significant.

What You Can Do

Individuals are urged to check their vaccination records and ensure they are up-to-date on the MMR vaccine. Those who may have been exposed to measles should monitor for symptoms and consult a healthcare professional, particularly if they are unvaccinated or unsure of their vaccination status. Health officials are also emphasizing the importance of accurate information and debunking misinformation about vaccines. Educational campaigns aimed at increasing vaccine confidence and addressing concerns are critical.

The current situation demands a coordinated effort from public health agencies, healthcare providers, and communities to address the root causes of declining vaccination rates and prevent further spread of this preventable disease. The resurgence of measles is not simply a health issue; it's a societal challenge that requires a collective response.