The US has recorded 1,281 measles cases, a 33-year high and exceeding the previous record of 1,274 in 2019. This surge, driven by declining vaccination rates and anti-vaccine rhetoric from a top health official, threatens to overturn the country's 2000 elimination status. Experts warn that maintaining a 95% vaccination rate is crucial to prevent the virus's continued spread and losing elimination status, a possibility if transmission remains unchecked for 12 months. Current kindergarten vaccination rates stand at 92.7%, leaving some communities vulnerable.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.