U.S. loss of measles elimination status would be a major public health setback

The Pan American Health Organization’s expected removal of the U.S. measles elimination status will mean decades of public health gains have been officially reversed. For nearly 30 years, the measles virus posed little threat in the United States because of strong public health leadership and trust in science. The reemergence of measles at dangerous levels has quickly become a threat to communities across the country. 

The expected loss of America’s status as having eradicated measles will be a tragedy because it reflects the preventable loss of human lives. It is unthinkable that people in the United States should be dying from measles in 2026. There have been eight reported deaths this year and more than 5,000 confirmed cases, when just a few years ago there were nearly none. Perhaps most heartbreaking is the potential long-term toll on infants infected this year, some of whom may develop fatal neurologic disease years after the initial infection. 

This expected reversal of America’s status is a reminder that infectious diseases have serious consequences. Our government’s leaders and public health officials must heed this urgent warning and take actions that slow the spread. That starts with promoting vaccination against measles, which is proven to be safe and effective. In addition, government leaders should work closely with PAHO to reestablish measles elimination, sufficiently fund state and local health departments to support community-level containment efforts, and invest in the infectious diseases workforce necessary to prevent, diagnose, treat and contain vaccine-preventable diseases, including measles.  

The lives of people in the United States are at risk. It’s time to act like it. 

— Wendy S. Armstrong, MD, FIDSA — President, IDSA 

About IDSA 

The Infectious Diseases Society of America is a global community of 13,000 clinicians, scientists and public health experts working together to solve humanity’s smallest and greatest challenges, from tiny microbes to global outbreaks. Rooted in science, committed to health equity and driven by curiosity, our compassionate and knowledgeable members safeguard the health of individuals, our communities and the world by advancing the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases. Visit idsociety.org to learn more.