From Seattletimes · · 1m 20s
US and Mexico Lose Measles Elimination Status
US and Mexico face measles resurgence after losing elimination status.
In brief
US and Mexico face measles resurgence after losing elimination status. US and Mexico have lost measles elimination status as outbreaks surge with 50+ deaths in Mexico and over 5,100 cases in the US. Originally reported by Seattletimes.
Measles elimination status at risk
International health experts meet to determine if US and Mexico have forfeited measles elimination status.
Measles resurgence in US and Mexico
Large outbreaks have hit multiple US states with over 5,100 confirmed cases this year, double the 2025 tally.
Measles cases in Mexico
Mexico reports over 20,500 confirmed measles cases with 50 measles-related deaths, mostly children under 5.
Measles elimination status history
US achieved measles elimination status in 2000 after vaccination campaigns reached 97% childhood vaccination rate.
Measles vaccination rates dropping
US childhood vaccination rate fell to 92% nationally last year, much lower in certain states and communities.
Measles outbreak causes
Outbreaks linked to unvaccinated Mennonite child traveling between Texas and Mexico.
Measles deaths in US
US has seen eight measles-associated deaths this year, more than any year in over three decades.
Measles elimination status decision
PAHO will determine if US and Mexico have lost measles elimination status based on genetic evidence of one year of spread.
The short version
US and Mexico have lost measles elimination status as outbreaks surge with 50+ deaths in Mexico and over 5,100 cases in the US.
