‘Unbelievably contagious’: Measles cases soar nationwide: What you need to know
WTOP • • health
Key Points:
- The United States has reported nearly 1,000 measles cases in the first two months of 2026, a record surge that is more than four times the total cases recorded in all of 2025, affecting 26 states.
- Virginia has reported 10 cases, including six in young children, while Maryland has identified possible exposure sites but no confirmed cases since March 2025.
- Health experts warn that measles is highly contagious, with unvaccinated individuals facing a 90% chance of infection if exposed, and severe complications can include pneumonia, encephalitis, and death.
- Despite the availability of effective vaccines like MMR and MMRV, misinformation and safety concerns contribute to vaccine hesitancy among some families.
