America's Future With Measles Is Hanging in the Balance

"Measles-vaccination rates have been steadily declining for several years; since last January, the country has logged its two largest measles epidemics in more than three decades. The second of those, still ballooning in South Carolina, is over 875 cases and counting. In April, measles may be declared endemic in the U.S. again, 26 years after elimination. When and if the maxim's second part-a rebound in vaccination-might manifest "is the key question," Paul Offit, a pediatrician and vaccine expert at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, told me."

"During past outbreaks, though, health authorities at local, state, and federal levels have given that same advice- vaccinate, now -loudly, clearly, and persistently. In 2026, the U.S. is facing the possibility of more and bigger measles outbreaks, as federal leaders have actively shrunk vaccine access, dismissed vaccine experts, and sowed doubts about vaccine benefits. Under these conditions, many experts are doubtful that facing down more disease, even its worst consequences, will convince enough Americans that more protection is necessary."

Measles-vaccination rates in the United States have fallen for several years, producing the two largest measles epidemics in more than three decades. The current South Carolina outbreak has exceeded 875 cases and could push measles to be declared endemic again. Historically, vaccination coverage has often rebounded after outbreaks, as families sought protection following severe disease. In 2026, federal actions that shrink vaccine access, dismiss vaccine experts, and sow doubt about vaccines may blunt that historical rebound. Many experts now doubt that additional disease alone will restore high vaccination coverage.

Read at The Atlantic