US measles total grows by 145 as South Carolina outbreak hits 920 cases

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the South Carolina Department of Public Health (SCDPH) have reported a significant surge in measles cases across the United States. As of February 6, 2026, the national total for the year has reached 733 cases, an increase of 145 within a single week. South Carolina is experiencing the largest outbreak in decades, with 920 total infections since the outbreak began in the fall of 2025, primarily concentrated in Spartanburg County. Data indicates that 95% of those infected are unvaccinated or have an unknown vaccine status, with 85% of cases occurring in children and young adults. Other significant outbreaks are ongoing in Arizona (254 cases), Utah (251 cases), and Florida. Public health officials are concerned that the US is on track to lose its measles elimination status, a milestone achieved in 2000. Despite the surge, some top federal health officials have been criticized for downplaying the impact or providing confusing vaccine guidance. Vaccination rates in affected areas like Spartanburg have seen a sharp increase (162%) in response to the crisis.