World·Public health
U.S. loses measles elimination status after 26 years, report says, as 2026 cases top 5,400
The Pan American Health Organization determined that measles has circulated continuously in the United States for more than 12 months, revoking the elimination status the country first achieved in 2000, the Wall Street Journal reported Friday, according to the Washington Examiner. More than 5,400 cases have been reported nationwide in 2026, up from 2,289 in 2025, with at least 10 measles-related deaths this year, the Examiner said, citing the CDC. Canada lost its status in November 2025, and Spain and the United Kingdom have also had theirs withdrawn.
Sources
- Washington ExaminerUS loses measles elimination status amid surge in cases: Report