Utah is experiencing a serious measles outbreak with more than 600 confirmed cases, part of a national surge that has topped 1,700 cases across 17 outbreaks in 2026
Connecticut has reported no confirmed cases in 2026 and has the highest childhood MMR vaccination rate in the country at 98.2%
Measles was detected in Fairfield County wastewater earlier this year, indicating the virus had passed through the area
A serious measles outbreak is continuing to take place in Utah, and while Connecticut has remained case-free so far in 2026, this newest outbreak is a reminder that no community is off the hook.
Utah health officials have confirmed 602 measles cases in an ongoing outbreak that began last year. Over 400 of those cases have occurred since January 1, with 75 recorded in the past three weeks. Preschools and elementary schools have now become sites of recent exposures.
Nearly 50 people have been hospitalized. 85% of those infected were unvaccinated. Even with roughly 90% of people in Utah vaccinated, that still leaves enough unprotected individuals to fuel the virus.
According to the CDC, 1,714 confirmed measles cases have been reported across the United States so far in 2026, with 17 separate outbreaks. This follows an even more alarming 2025, when the country recorded 2,287 confirmed cases. Nationally, about 92% of this year’s cases have been in people who were unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown.
What does this mean for Connecticut?
For now, Connecticut has no confirmed measles cases in 2026, and the state has the highest childhood MMR vaccination rate in the country at 98.2%.
Earlier this year, measles was detected in Fairfield County wastewater, signaling that someone carrying the virus had passed through or lived in the area.
This outbreak is a reminder of several things everyone should be doing:
**Get vaccinated.**If you or your children are not up to date on the MMR vaccine, now is the time. Two doses are 97% effective at preventing measles.**Know your status.**Adults born before 1989 may have only received one dose. If you’re unsure, ask your provider.**Wash your hands.**Measles spreads through respiratory droplets, but basic hand hygiene remains one of the most effective defenses against a wide range of illnesses.**Stay home when you’re sick.**Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known and if one person has it, up to 9 out of 10 unprotected people nearby can get infected. Keeping sick individuals home, especially away from schools and childcare settings, is critical.**Be mindful of travel.**Measles is circulating widely across the U.S. and globally. If you’re traveling, ensure your family is fully vaccinated before heading out.
By Michelle Rappaport
