US measles cases continue to climb, especially in Virginia
U.S. measles cases reached 2,073 today after 43 newly confirmed infections, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Virginia has emerged as the nation’s newest hot spot, with a significant cluster of infections concentrated in Buckingham County. Most of this year’s cases are locally acquired, according to CDC data.
Why is Virginia a new measles hot spot?
Virginia has seen a sharp increase in infections, with the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) confirming 111 cases, including 34 new ones. The CDC measles map lists 110 cases for the state, noting an increase of 20 cases since last week.
At least 88 of these cases, or 79%, are located in Buckingham County and occurred within the past month. VDH officials stated that 88 infections are linked to a state outbreak, while seven are related to international travel.
This surge follows a period of low activity in the state. According to VDH records, Virginia had only five measles cases during the entirety of 2025.
Did You Know? A person with measles can spread the virus from four days before until four days after a rash begins, according to the Virginia Department of Health.
Which states are seeing the most infections?
South Carolina recorded the highest number of cases this year at 670, though the CDC reports that its outbreak is now over. Utah follows with 490 cases on the CDC map, though the Utah health department lists 482. Utah has seen only nine new cases in the last three weeks, which may indicate the outbreak is slowing.
Pennsylvania reported 65 cases after 15 new infections this week. The Pennsylvania Department of Health identified Lancaster County as having the most cases at 31, followed by Lebanon County with 19.
Other states with significant numbers include Texas with 182 cases and Florida. CDC data lists 141 cases for Florida, including two new ones, while the Florida Department of Health reports 155 cases through June 6, with one new infection.
Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the high percentage of unvaccinated or unknown status patients creates a precarious environment for community immunity. When 93% of patients lack verified vaccination, the potential for rapid local transmission in concentrated areas like Buckingham County increases significantly.
Who is most at risk according to current data?
Younger populations are disproportionately affected by the current surge. CDC data shows that 72% of this year’s cases involve children and young adults up to 19 years old, with 21% specifically involving children under age 5.
Vaccination status is a primary factor in these figures. Only 4% of patients this year have received the full two-dose series, while 93% are unvaccinated or have an unknown vaccination status.
While the total number of cases is approaching last year’s total of 2,288, some metrics have declined. Hospitalizations this year stand at 6%, compared to 11% last year, and no deaths have been reported this year, following three deaths in 2025.
What may happen next?
The concentration of cases in Buckingham County could lead to further local transmission if vaccination rates do not increase. Because the virus spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes, health officials may prioritize outreach in high-density areas.
The slowing trend in Utah may serve as a possible model for other states, but the new rises in Pennsylvania and Virginia suggest the virus could continue to find new pockets of unvaccinated populations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the current primary hot spot for measles in the US?
Buckingham County, Virginia, is currently a major hot spot, accounting for 79% of Virginia’s cases, all of which occurred within the past month.
What percentage of measles patients this year were unvaccinated?
According to the CDC, 93% of patients have been unvaccinated or have an unknown vaccination status.
How many total measles cases have been reported in the US so far this year?
The CDC reports that total US measles cases have reached 2,073.
Do you and your family have up-to-date vaccination records?