U.S. faces loss of measles-free status amid rising cases and falling vaccination rates

An NBC News investigation found that childhood vaccination rates in the U.S. are declining while measles cases have surged to over 5,000 this year, with 43 outbreaks reported nationwide, according to NBC News.

Public health experts expect the U.S. may lose its measles elimination status following a review by an independent Pan American Health Organization commission, NBC News reported. This would place the U.S. alongside Canada as countries in the Americas that have lost control of the virus.

The measles elimination status was achieved in 2000 when only about 100 cases were confirmed nationally. The recent increase in cases marks a significant reversal in controlling the disease, NBC News noted.

Eight people, including four infants too young to be vaccinated, have died from measles this year, highlighting the public health risks of declining vaccination rates, NBC News said.

An updated analysis by NBC News and Stanford University revealed a notable drop in childhood vaccination rates, especially in vulnerable areas like Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, which has been hard hit by outbreaks.

The potential loss of measles elimination status underscores concerns about the spread of one of the world's most contagious diseases and the importance of vaccination efforts, NBC News reported.