Declining vaccination rates and rising risks

The total has already surpassed last year's record of 2,289 cases and comes amid declining vaccination rates and growing vaccine hesitancy. Health experts warned the outbreak is preventable and poses a serious risk, particularly to children.

Resurgence of an eliminated disease

Measles, which can cause severe complications including pneumonia and brain inflammation, was declared eliminated in the US in 2000 due to widespread vaccination. However, cases have resurged in recent years as immunisation rates have declined.