The U.S. has recorded 2,318 measles cases this year, exceeding the 2025 total of 2,289 and marking the highest annual count since 1991, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As of July 23, 45 jurisdictions reported 2,302 cases, with 16 infections linked to international visitors. While no deaths have occurred this year, 151 hospitalizations were recorded, representing 7% of total cases compared with 11% in 2025. Nearly 93% of cases were in unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status, and the CDC emphasized that the MMR vaccine, marketed by Merck and GSK, is the most effective protection. The rise comes as the U.S. risks losing its measles elimination status, achieved in 2020, with the Pan American Health Organization set to evaluate data in November after Canada lost its status last year.
GSK plcMeasles outbreak drives demand for MMR vaccine, which GSK markets.
Merck & Company IncMeasles outbreak drives demand for MMR vaccine, which Merck markets.
Merck KGaA