By Aaron Allen, The Seattle Medium
Measles cases are rising as the United States has already surpassed 1,100 confirmed infections in 2026, signaling the resurgence of a disease declared eliminated in the United States in 2000.
The Washington State Department of Health has confirmed 26 measles cases across four counties so far this year. The total marks a sharp increase from the three cases reported in a single county as of Jan. 16.
State health officials say the number of cases reported in 2026 has already more than doubled the total reported in 2025. Unlike last year, the current cases are linked to outbreaks involving three or more infections. No measles outbreaks were reported in Washington in 2025.
Children account for the majority of infections in Washington this year. About 80 percent of confirmed cases involve children, including 16 cases among those ages 5 to 17 and four cases among children younger than 5.
Snohomish County has reported the highest number of cases with 14. Clark County has reported eight cases, Stevens County has reported three cases and Kittitas County has reported one.
Health officials say most of the infected individuals were not vaccinated. Of the confirmed cases, 24 involved patients who were unvaccinated, while two cases involved patients whose vaccination status is unknown.
Dr. Tao Sheng Kwan-Gett, state health officer for the Washington State Department of Health, said vaccination remains the most effective protection against measles.
“MMR vaccine saves lives and is our best defense against measles,” said Sheng Kwan-Gett. “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. You just never know when or where your family might be exposed to measles, so make sure everyone is up to date on MMR vaccine, one of the best-tested vaccines around.”
Measles is a highly contagious airborne virus that can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
According to Department of Health officials, “The measles virus travels through the air. A sick person can spread measles by coughing, sneezing, breathing, or talking. People can get measles when they breathe air with the measles virus, or if they get the virus on their hands and touch their face. Measles can stay in the air for up to two hours, so people can get measles even after a sick person has left the area.”
Symptoms typically appear seven to 21 days after exposure and can include red, watery eyes, high fever, cough, runny nose and a rash that begins on the face and spreads down the body.
For babies and young children, measles can cause life threatening complications, including pneumonia and brain inflammation. Three deaths from measles were reported in the United States in 2025.
The Department of Health said it continues to work with local health jurisdictions and Tribal partners to investigate cases, provide MMR vaccinations and facilitate laboratory testing.
Health officials are also conducting outreach and providing education on measles prevention, including working with schools and communities to prepare for potential outbreaks.
“This year DOH began conducting whole genome sequencing on laboratory-confirmed measles cases. Genetic sequencing maps the virus’s genetic “fingerprint,” which helps doctors and scientists determine whether cases are connected to each other or if they stem from separate introductions,” DOH officials said. “Current analysis indicates Washington’s 2026 measles cases came from multiple introductions from outside the state.”
Health officials say the Measles, Mumps and Rubella vaccine is safe and highly effective. One dose of the vaccine is about 93 percent effective at preventing measles, while two doses are about 97 percent effective.
The Department of Health advises that “getting the MMR vaccines is safer than getting sick with measles and it protects your family and your community.”
Medical guidance indicates that children typically receive the MMR vaccine at about 1 year of age and again at 4 years of age. Health officials also advise residents to be aware of people living in or traveling to and from destinations where there is an active measles outbreak. Most people who contract measles, reports show, are not vaccinated.
Free or low cost vaccines are available through several programs, including:
• The Childhood Vaccine Program, which provides free vaccines for children who do not have insurance, are underinsured or are covered by Medicaid.
• The Adult Vaccine Program, which offers vaccines for uninsured or underinsured adults ages 19 and older.
• Washington Apple Health (Medicaid), which covers recommended vaccines at no cost for eligible Washington residents.
For current case counts, exposure locations and prevention information, visit the Department of Health measles activity webpage.
