Measles cases nationwide top 5,400 as deaths rise to 10
Measles cases in the United States have surpassed 5,400 with 10 reported deaths, prompting concerns over declining vaccination rates. Health officials note that vaccination coverage has dropped below the threshold required for herd immunity.
Why it matters
The surge in cases and deaths highlights a significant public health challenge regarding vaccine hesitancy and the potential loss of measles elimination status in the US.
New measles deaths were reported in Wisconsin and Pennsylvania on Friday, bringing the total number of measles deaths in the United States to 10.
Measles cases nationwide have topped 5,400, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported earlier.
The CDC says 5,412 infections have been reported across 45 states. That is 230 more infections since the update last Friday. Between 2000 to 2024, the U.S. averaged 180 cases annually.
Wisconsin health officials on Friday reported a second measles death in the state, as Pennsylvania health officials also reported an additional death.
The nationwide total for measles deaths is now at 10 -- seven in Pennsylvania, one in New York and two in Wisconsin.
A decision about the U.S. measles elimination status could come as soon as Friday.
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