With U.S. measles cases surpassing 4,580 this year, more than double the total reported in all of 2025 the outbreak is raising urgent questions about vaccination rates, public health preparedness and how to prevent further spread.
New data from the CDC show that 96% of people diagnosed with measles in 2026 were unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status. Pennsylvania has reported more than 1,300 cases, with additional outbreaks affecting states including Utah and South Carolina.
George Washington University experts are available who can speak to the latest developments and the broader public health implications, including:
If you would like to schedule an interview, please contact Katelyn Deckelbaum, [email protected].
Jose Lucar is an associate professor of infectious diseases at the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences.
Maria Elena Ruiz is an associate professor of medicine and an infectious disease expert at the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences.
Elizabeth Choma is a pediatric nurse practitioner and clinical assistant professor at the GW School of Nursing.
Emily Smith, is an associate professor of global health and an expert in infectious diseases and epidemiology, at the GW Milken Institute School of Public Health.
Jennifer Walsh is a clinical assistant professor in the GW School of Nursing and primarily teaches pediatrics and health assessment.
Asefeh Faraz Covelli is an associate professor in the Family Nurse Practitioner program at the GW School of Nursing.
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