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Washington Today
By the People, for the People
Measles Outbreak Reaches Highest Level Since 2000
CDC reports over 1,200 confirmed cases across 31 states, with no cases yet in Tennessee.
Published on Mar. 9, 2026
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The United States is currently experiencing its largest measles outbreak since the disease was considered eliminated in 2000, with over 1,200 confirmed cases across 31 states as of early March 2026. The outbreak is primarily impacting elementary school-aged children, though adults have also been infected. While no cases have been reported in Tennessee so far, health officials are urging vigilance, especially for those traveling over spring break.
Why it matters
Measles outbreaks are preventable through vaccination, but vaccination rates have declined in recent years, leading to the current situation. Maintaining high community vaccination levels, or 'herd immunity,' is crucial to protecting both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals from the highly contagious disease.
The details
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported 1,281 confirmed measles cases in the United States as of March 5, 2026, the highest number since the disease was eliminated in 2000. The outbreak has spread to 31 states, though no cases have been confirmed in Tennessee so far this year. The outbreak is primarily impacting elementary school-aged children, but adults have also been infected.
- The outbreak was first reported in January 2026.
- As of March 5, 2026, the CDC has reported 1,281 confirmed measles cases nationwide.
The players
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
The leading national public health institute in the United States, responsible for monitoring and responding to disease outbreaks.
What’s next
Health officials are urging vigilance, especially for those traveling over spring break, and recommending that individuals ensure their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations are up to date.
The takeaway
This outbreak highlights the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates in communities to prevent the spread of highly contagious diseases like measles. Vaccination is a crucial public health measure that protects both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals.
