US measles cases reach 4,852 as Pennsylvania outbreak continues to grow
Is it spreading to new areas?
Spread confirmed
As of 30 October 2026, public health authorities have confirmed ongoing transmission across multiple states, including newly reported cases in Macon County and DuPage County, Illinois, as well as 80 cases in Minnesota.
Reported that total national measles cases reached 4,852, confirmed three measles deaths in the US for 2026, and deployed epidemiologists to assist Pennsylvania's outbreak response.
Stated that statewide measles cases are approaching 1,400, issued public exposure alerts, and conducted community outreach roundtables with local healthcare leaders.
As of 30 October 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that total US measles cases have reached 4,852, making 2026 the largest US measles outbreak year in 35 years. Pennsylvania remains the epicenter of the nation's transmission, with state health officials reporting cases approaching 1,400. Federal public health epidemiologists deployed to Pennsylvania have extended their stay to assist local health departments with response efforts.
Multiple other states are reporting significant case counts, including Minnesota, which recorded 80 measles cases in 2026—its highest annual total since 1990. To address under-immunized populations, Pennsylvania state health officials have adapted public health strategies to include word-of-mouth messaging and direct home visits, while local outlets report an increased openness to vaccination among residents in affected communities.
For official health advice, readers should consult their national public health authority and the World Health Organization. The MMR vaccine is highly effective at preventing measles, and anyone uncertain of their vaccination status should speak with a doctor or their local health department. This site does not provide medical advice.
Timeline
The CDC confirms a third US measles-related death in 2026, and DuPage County, Illinois records its first case of the year.
Original title: 'Disease detectives' in Pennsylvania will stay longer as measles cases continue to rise
Epidemiologists deployed to Pennsylvania will remain in the state longer to assist with the ongoing measles response as cases continue to rise, WGAL reported.
Original title: As a historic measles outbreak hits Pennsylvania Amish country, more show openness to vaccines
LNP reported that more members of the Amish community in Pennsylvania are showing openness to receiving vaccines as a measles outbreak affects the region.
Original title: Inquirer goes to court over sealed measles death records in Franklin County, Pa.
The Philadelphia Inquirer went to court to seek the unsealing of records regarding a measles-related death reported earlier in October 2026 by the Franklin County coroner, according to the newspaper.
Original title: As a historic measles outbreak hits Pennsylvania Amish country, more show openness to vaccines
Spotlight PA reported that Lancaster County in central Pennsylvania is the epicenter of the worst US measles outbreak in 35 years. Dr. Diego Hijano of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital emphasized the interconnectedness of vulnerable groups and the wider public.
Original title: Families in the US are opting for earlier measles vaccinations amid outbreak
The Guardian reported that families in the United States are choosing to vaccinate their children against measles earlier than standard schedules amid the ongoing outbreak.
Original title: As historic measles outbreak hits Amish country, more show openness to vaccines
NBC10 Philadelphia reported that more residents in Amish country are showing an openness to vaccines as a historic measles outbreak continues in the region.
Original title: Takeaways from AP's reporting on measles in Pennsylvania's Amish country
Lancaster County, home to the largest U.S. Amish population, is the epicenter of the nation's worst measles outbreak in 35 years, according to reporting by the Associated Press.
Original title: As a historic measles outbreak hits Pennsylvania Amish country, more show openness to vaccines
Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, has served as the epicenter of the nation's worst measles outbreak in 35 years, while local community members show increased openness to vaccination, according to reports.
Original title: As a historic measles outbreak hits Pennsylvania Amish country, more show openness to vaccines
More individuals in Pennsylvania Amish country are showing interest in vaccination as the historic measles outbreak continues, the Associated Press reported.
Original title: In measles outbreak, state turns its attention to hard-hit Mifflin County
Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Debra Bogen met with healthcare leaders in Mifflin County to discuss the local measles outbreak and response efforts, officials reported.