Nebraska Reports First Measles Case as US Outbreaks Expand

As outbreaks of measles expand across the United States, Lancaster County, Nebraska, has reported its first case since 1990. This case marks the first confirmed instance of measles in Nebraska for this year. The situation reflects a broader trend where, as of last week, 416 measles cases have been reported across 14 states in 2026.

Current Measles Outbreaks

Utah is experiencing a significant rise in measles cases, with 21 new infections documented in the past week. The total number of cases in this outbreak has now reached 237. Among these, 21 individuals have been hospitalized. Notably, 67% of the cases are located in the southwest portion of the state.

• Breakdown of Cases in Utah:
  • Utah County: 35 cases
  • Salt Lake County: 18 cases
• Patient Demographics:
  • 61% of cases are children
  • 89% involve unvaccinated individuals

Arizona has also reported an increase in measles cases, doubling from 12 to 24 this year, with the majority (17) occurring in Mohave County. This surge is part of a two-state outbreak affecting individuals in both Arizona and southwest Utah. Last year, Arizona reported 220 measles infections.

Washington State Update

Northern Washington has documented six cases of measles since an outbreak began two weeks ago. The Snohomish County Health Department noted the association of these cases with unvaccinated children across various locations, including a church and an elementary school.

Nebraska Reports First Measles Case

The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department in Nebraska has revealed the state’s first case of measles for the year. The patient is a vaccinated adult who had recently visited a Walmart and an urgent care center while infectious. There has been no indication of recent travel outside the state.

California’s Response to Vaccination Rates

In light of rising measles cases, California is conducting an audit of 428 schools due to low vaccination rates among kindergartners and seventh graders. If more than 10% of these students are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated, the state may impose penalties, including a reduction in Americans with Disabilities Act payments. Last year, California recorded 25 measles cases and has reported three cases this year.

This alarming uptick in measles cases across several states emphasizes the importance of vaccination and herd immunity to safeguard public health. Vigilance and prompt action are crucial in combating these outbreaks.