US measles cases top 5,000, highest in 35 years

· Health · United States

The United States has recorded more than 5,000 measles cases this year, the highest annual count in 35 years, according to an official tally released Friday. Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that was declared eliminated in the US in 2000; sustained outbreaks signal gaps in vaccination coverage. The 5,000-plus figure marks the largest outbreak year since the early 1990s and adds pressure on public health authorities over immunization rates. The count comes amid a broader domestic debate over vaccine policy and follows other measles-related developments, including an infant death reported in Wisconsin.

Why it matters：The highest measles count in decades signals eroding herd immunity and will intensify scrutiny of vaccination policy and public health funding.

Key points

  • More than 5,000 cases were recorded this year, per an official count released Friday.
  • It is the highest annual total in 35 years.
  • The US had previously declared measles eliminated in 2000.

Sources (original reporting)

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