The United States has recorded 5,182 confirmed measles cases this year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported Friday. The count, through Nov. 5, rose by 330 from the previous update and is the first annual US tally above 5,000 since 1991 in the CDC’s historical records.
The CDC's November 6 update puts the total at more than twice the 2,289 cases recorded in all of 2025. The agency counted 5,164 cases reported by 47 jurisdictions and another 18 among international visitors.
Most cases are linked to outbreaks
The CDC says 4,993 cases, or 96% of the total, were linked to outbreaks. Of those, 3,608 were linked to outbreaks that began in 2026 and 1,385 to outbreaks that started in 2025. The agency counts three or more related cases as an outbreak. It recorded 43 new outbreaks this year. A weekly rise in the number reported can include infections that happened before the latest reporting period.
The national figure follows separate state reports, including Wisconsin's first measles death since 1990 and Pennsylvania's sixth measles-associated death. State health departments have the latest information for their own communities, including exposure notices and any local vaccination recommendations.
If you think you were exposed
The CDC advises calling a health care provider immediately if you think you or your child was exposed. Symptoms usually begin seven to 14 days after infection and can include fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes. A rash typically follows several days after the first symptoms. If your health department posts an exposure notice, check its specific locations, dates and instructions.
