US loses measles-elimination status after 26 years, WSJ reports

The Pan American Health Organization has reportedly revoked the United States' measles-elimination status after 26 years, following an independent commission's finding of 12 months of continuous local transmission. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 5,182 confirmed cases across 45 states, New York City, and Washington, D.C. as of Thursday, more than double the 2,289 cases recorded in 2025.

Since 2025, approximately 7,500 people have been infected, resulting in 13 deaths and hospitalizations for roughly one in nine patients. Most cases involve unvaccinated individuals, occurring amid increased vaccine hesitancy under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Public health experts, including Noel Brewer and William Moss, described the loss of status as unconscionable and damaging to the nation's public health reputation. CDC Director Erica Schwartz stated the agency will continue working with states to encourage vaccination.