Key Takeaways:
- The US is experiencing a significant measles outbreak, with cases spreading from the South to the Pacific Northwest.
- Washington state has reported three cases of measles, all among unvaccinated children, linked to a contagious family traveling from South Carolina.
- South Carolina has nearly 560 measles cases, with over 500 people in quarantine and 85 in isolation.
- Low vaccination rates in both Washington and South Carolina have contributed to the outbreak.
- Measles is highly contagious and can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and death.
Introduction to the Outbreak
The United States is currently experiencing a significant measles outbreak, with cases spreading from the South to the Pacific Northwest. As of January 19, 2026, the outbreak shows no signs of slowing down, with new cases being reported in Washington state. The outbreak is linked to a contagious family who traveled from South Carolina, where a major outbreak of the highly contagious viral disease is ongoing. The family, which included an adult and two children, visited Snohomish and King County in late December through New Year’s Day, resulting in the exposure of numerous individuals to the disease.
The Situation in Washington State
In Washington state, three cases of measles have been confirmed, all among unvaccinated children in Snohomish County, just north of Seattle. The children, who range in age from around 2 to 9 years old, are recovering at home and did not require hospitalization. However, health officials are expecting more cases due to the number of exposures and the number of unvaccinated people who came into contact with the infected children. The outbreak is Washington’s first since 2023, and it highlights the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of the disease. According to Dr. James Lewis, the county health officer, "We’re expecting more measles cases as a result of the previous exposures as well as these new outbreak cases. We are hoping to contain it, but unfortunately, there have been a number of exposure sites already and there are likely more cases in the community that we do not know about yet."
The Outbreak in South Carolina
South Carolina is experiencing a major outbreak of measles, with nearly 560 cases reported as of January 16. The outbreak is centered around Spartanburg County, in the upstate region, which has a low vaccination rate compared to the rest of the country. Local schools have seen increases in parents seeking exemptions to opt children out of receiving vaccines, which has contributed to the spread of the disease. Cases linked to South Carolina’s outbreak have also appeared in North Carolina, highlighting the need for vigilance and cooperation across state lines. The outbreak in South Carolina has resulted in over 500 people being quarantined and 85 people being isolated with symptoms to prevent further spread of the disease.
Vaccination Rates and the Risk of Outbreaks
Both Washington state and South Carolina have declining vaccination rates, which have contributed to the outbreak. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data, Washington’s vaccination rate for the 2024-25 school year was 90.9%, lower than South Carolina’s. Both states are below the 95% community threshold needed to prevent outbreaks. The low vaccination rates in these states have created an environment in which the measles virus can spread quickly, highlighting the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of the disease. Health officials are urging parents to ensure their children are up-to-date on their vaccinations to prevent further spread of the disease.
The Risks of Measles
Measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, swelling of the brain, and weakened immune system. An infection can result in death, and the disease can spread quickly through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, breathes, or talks. Viral particles can stay in the air for up to two hours after a person leaves the room, making it essential to take precautions to prevent exposure. In 2025, the United States had 2,242 measles cases, the most in over three decades, according to CDC data. The country also saw three deaths, after not having a death in 10 years, highlighting the need for vigilance and cooperation to prevent the spread of the disease.
Containing the Outbreak
Health officials are working to contain the outbreak, but it is an ongoing challenge. In addition to the cases in Snohomish County, a separate measles case has been reported in a student who recently traveled to South Carolina. The student, who attends Central Washington University, had possible exposure to others at the campus located in Ellensburg. Health officials are urging anyone who may have been exposed to the disease to seek medical attention immediately. By working together, health officials hope to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread of the disease. However, it will require the cooperation of individuals, communities, and governments to ensure that vaccination rates improve and the spread of the disease is prevented.