CDC Warns Measles Outbreak Threatening U.S. Elimination Status

The CDC is calling for action to increase U.S. measles immunization amid a rise in cases that could threaten the nation’s status as one where the virus is eliminated. The number of measles cases detected in 2024 has already nearly reached double the total confirmed in 2023. The CDC has confirmed 113 cases so far, compared to 58 detected last year.

Overall, 91 percent of measles patients since 2020 have been unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status. “The U.S. measles elimination status will continue to be threatened by global increases in measles incidence and decreases in global, national, and local measles vaccination coverage,” the CDC said. Read more from The Hill here.