Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease Statement as U.S. Measles Cases Hit Worst Level Since 1991

July 23, 2026 (Washington, D.C.) The Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease released the following statement after the U.S. reached its highest measles case count in 35 years (2,295), surpassing the 2,289 reported for all of 2025:

“For a second consecutive year, America has the alarming misfortune of declaring this the worst year for measles since the early 1990s – and  five months still remain. Clusters of cases span dozens of states, led by South Carolina, Utah, and Texas, with 34 new outbreaks recorded so far.

“Families want and deserve clear, consistent public health leadership during a preventable infectious disease outbreak like this. Regardless of political party leaning, 93% of Americans say that every family should be able to protect themselves with vaccines that are available, accessible, and affordable, and 92% say policymakers should ensure continued access and coverage for doctor-recommended vaccines.

“That bipartisan consensus stands in sharp contrast to misleading statements and changing policies that stoke confusion and make access more difficult. As cases have skyrocketed over the last 18 months, officials postponed a review of the country’s 25-year measles elimination status and missed a significant opportunity to deliver clear guidance to an American public eager to end the spread of the disease.

“Let this grim benchmark be a unifying force now. Measles is preventable, and we know what works. Americans should consult their doctors or local pharmacists about the best ways to protect themselves and their families. We urge leaders to support easy access to vaccines.”