The United States is on the verge of losing its measles elimination status — a designation it has held for 25 years. [1]How the US gained elimination statusIn 1994, countries in the Americas (through the Pan American Health Organization) set a goal to interrupt endemic measles transmission in the region by 2000. [5]As of the mid-2020s, all PAHO member countries other than the ones with temporary setbacks have had measles elimination verified as of 2024. [7]2025-26 outbreak data and severityA total of 2,255 measles cases were recorded in 2025 in 45 states, with only 25 cases reported among international visitors. [8]PAHO has indicated that if endemic transmission (continuous spread of 12 months or longer) is documented, the U.S. would lose its measles-free status.

Source: CNN January 25, 2026 13:06 UTC