Measles is a growing concern in Washington as U.S. cases surpass 1,100

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed 26 measles cases across four counties this year, marking an increase from the three cases reported in a single county on January 16.

The 26 measles cases reported in the first two months of 2026 are more than double the 12 cases reported in 2025. Over half of the measles cases reported in Washington in 2026 are linked to an outbreak, defined as three or more related cases. No measles outbreaks were reported in 2025.

Nationally, measles cases have surpassed 1,100 in 2026. The increase reflects a resurgence of a disease that was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000.

"MMR vaccine saves lives and is our best defense against measles," said Dr. Tao Sheng Kwan-Gett, State Health Officer, DOH. "Though measles was declared eliminated in the United States 26 years ago, we are seeing more and more cases linked to outbreaks in other states, particularly in families that are unvaccinated. Don't wait-protect your family now: check everyone's vaccination status and get the MMR vaccine today if needed. You just never know when or where your family might be exposed to measles-MMR is one of the best-tested vaccines around."

Measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, breathes, or talks. The virus can remain in the air for up to 2 hours, allowing people to be infected even after a sick person has left the area.

Symptoms typically appear 7-21 days after exposure and include:

High fever, cough, and runny nose

Red, watery eyes

A rash that begins on the face and spreads down the body

Measles can cause life-threatening health complications, including pneumonia and brain inflammation, especially for babies and young children.

The most effective prevention for measles is the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. One dose is 93% effective, and two doses are 97% effective. Getting the MMR vaccine is safer than getting sick with measles and protects family members and the community. Children typically get the MMR vaccine at 1 year and again at 4 years of age. Unvaccinated adults can also be vaccinated. 

Free or low-cost vaccines are available through the state's Childhood and Adult Vaccine Programs, and through Washington Apple Health (Medicaid).

Stay informed, protect your health, and help stop the outbreak. Check current case counts, exposure locations, and prevention information on DOH's measles activity webpage at https://tinyurl.com/msz7eskj.