Bennington
Measles Cases Spike to 35-Year High Amid Declining Vaccination Rates in Vermont and Nearby States
Measles cases this year have surpassed all of 2025 to become the worst since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000, with cases now in 44 states and the District of Columbia, according to a federal report released Friday. There…
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Key points
- Measles cases have reached a 35-year high, surpassing 2,318 confirmed cases.
- 93% of cases are among unvaccinated individuals, mostly under 20 years old.
- Local vaccination efforts are crucial to prevent further outbreaks in Vermont and surrounding areas.
NewsWK — The recent surge in measles cases, now at a 35-year high, is raising concerns for residents across Bennington and surrounding areas as vaccination rates decline. According to a report first published by Stateline, the current number of confirmed cases has surpassed all of 2025, with 2,318 cases reported as of July 23, 2026.
This alarming trend has been noted in 44 states, including Vermont, where vaccination rates are crucial for preventing outbreaks. The report indicates that 93% of measles cases this year are among unvaccinated individuals, predominantly those under 20 years old.
Current Situation and Local Impact
South Carolina leads with the highest number of cases, followed by Utah, Texas, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. Notably, Virginia has a statewide vaccination rate of 95.6%, yet two rural counties are experiencing outbreaks due to significantly lower vaccination rates.
In Vermont, the childhood vaccination rates are also critical. Many states, including those nearby, are struggling to maintain the 95% vaccination threshold necessary to prevent measles outbreaks, especially among unvaccinated individuals and very young children who cannot be vaccinated.
Health Officials’ Concerns
Dr. William Moss, director of the International Vaccine Access Center at Johns Hopkins University, stated, “High vaccination coverage has protected even the unvaccinated and undervaccinated because of herd protection, keeping measles at bay for the past few decades. But in communities with pockets of susceptible individuals across a broad age range, measles has been able to take hold, infecting those who are susceptible and spreading rapidly.” This highlights the importance of maintaining vaccination efforts in our local communities.
As the Pan American Health Organization prepares to review the U.S. measles status in November, the potential for changes in elimination status raises significant public health concerns. Local health authorities encourage residents to stay informed and participate in vaccination programs to protect the community.
What’s next? Residents are urged to check their vaccination status and encourage vaccination for children to safeguard against the resurgence of measles.
This article was produced with the assistance of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
Based on reporting by Tim Henderson originally published by Stateline. Read the original story.
