Pennsylvania has reported more than 1,000 measles cases this year, making it the state’s largest measles outbreak in more than three decades, according to state health officials. The surge comes as the United States records its worst year for measles in decades.
Nearly 3,900 measles cases have been reported across the U.S. in 2026, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The country has also recorded eight measles-associated deaths over the past two years, highlighting the severity of the ongoing outbreaks. (cdc.gov)
Large measles outbreaks have also been reported in states including Texas, Utah and South Carolina since the beginning of 2025. South Carolina previously recorded 997 cases in its largest outbreak, according to the report.
New York has also responded to rising concerns. Governor Kathy Hochul declared a disaster emergency on October 5, citing measles cases in neighboring states and rural parts of New York. The order expands the group of healthcare workers who can administer measles vaccines and allows nurses to order measles testing alongside doctors.
Measles is highly contagious and can spread rapidly among people who are not immune. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent infection and outbreaks. The CDC recommends two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine for children, with the first dose generally given at 12–15 months and the second at 4–6 years. (cdc.gov)
The continuing outbreaks have renewed concerns about declining vaccination coverage and the risk of measles spreading in communities where immunity levels are insufficient.

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