Scientists are warning that the ongoing measles outbreak might force the United States to lose its elimination status for the first time in decades. The big picture: For 25 years, the U.S. has been free of yearly measles outbreaks.

South Carolina health officials on Friday confirmed an additional 15 new cases of measles since Tuesday, as the widening outbreak of the vaccine-preventable disease in the northwest part of the state has infected 126 people so far.

A state epidemiologist said the spike in cases came in the wake of Thanksgiving travel and a lack of vaccinations. At least 16 cases were traced to a church.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today said the United States has 1,912 confirmed measles cases so far in 2025, an increase of 84 cases since last week and a bad sign as holiday gatherings, travel, and indoor activities is set to pick up in the final weeks of the year.

The South Carolina Department of Public Health said 16 of the 27 new measles cases stemmed from exposure at the Way of Truth Church in Inman.

The Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed the first measles outbreak in Bexar County on July 2. A recent study found that an outbreak the size of the one that occurred in West Texas cost around $12.6 million. It costs around $58,600 for one person to receive care for measles in the hospital.