Family Physicians: We Must Use Every Available Lever to Stop Ongoing Measles Transmission

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 14, 2026

Media Contact:
AAFP Public Relations
pr@aafp.org​

The loss of measles elimination status in the U.S. is a dangerous and serious step backward for public health. It signals that the virus is spreading continuously and that too many people remain unprotected. It does not mean the MMR vaccine has stopped working. It means we must restore confidence in the safety and efficacy of life-saving public health tools.

Measles is not harmless. It is highly contagious, and infants, children, older adults, pregnant patients and people with underlying health conditions all face serious risks. We cannot gamble with our nation’s health. Even small outbreaks can cost millions to contain, and every hour and resource spent responding to measles outbreaks is time taken from other urgent community health needs.

The good news is that these outbreaks are entirely preventable. The science has not changed—the MMR vaccine is our best protection against measles. It is safe and effective, and two doses are about 97% effective at preventing the disease.

A drop in cases alone will not return measles to the history books. Restoring elimination status requires an organized and sustained response that includes increased support for state and local health departments, timelier surveillance and communications, clear information for families and an easier path to vaccination. We must use every available lever to stop ongoing transmission and rebuild a community of immunity.

Note: The AAFP has information about measles and the prevention of measles, including the MMR vaccine, available on AAFP.org and FamilyDoctor.org​.

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About the American Academy of Family Physicians
The AAFP is the largest national association of family physicians, representing 124,500 physicians and medical students. Family medicine’s cornerstone is an ongoing, personal patient-physician relationship focused on impactful care for people of all ages, races and genders across all medical conditions. The AAFP supports every stage of a family physician's career and provides evidence-based resources, advocacy and community to empower family medicine. To learn more, visit AAFP.org. For information about health care, medical conditions and wellness, please visit the AAFP’s patient education website, FamilyDoctor.org​.