APIC Urges Strong, Coordinated Action as Measles Outbreak Escalates Nationwide

Arlington, Va., January 20, 2026 - The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC), together with its local chapters across the country, is deeply concerned by the accelerating spread of measles and the growing risk it poses to patients, communities, and the nation's healthcare system.

Measles is one of the most contagious vaccine-preventable diseases. The resurgence now unfolding reflects a troubling erosion of protections that once eliminated endemic measles transmission in the United States. Infection preventionists working across hospitals, outpatient settings, long-term care, home care, and public health are already seeing increased strain on emergency departments, limited isolation capacity, and growing pressure on the healthcare workforce.

"Infection preventionists across the country are united in their concern about what sustained measles transmission means for patients, healthcare workers, and healthcare system capacity," said Kathy Ward, RN, BSN, MPH, CIC, FAPIC, President of APIC. "This is why APIC and our local chapters are jointly calling on governors to prioritize prevention. While healthcare facilities will continue to respond to individual cases, widespread measles outbreaks cannot be managed through isolation and emergency response alone. High vaccination coverage remains the most effective way to protect communities and preserve access to care."

While healthcare-based infection control measures such as airborne isolation, personal protective equipment, and post-exposure management are essential, they are not sufficient when community transmission is widespread. Sustained herd immunity through vaccination remains the most effective tool to prevent outbreaks, protect vulnerable populations, and reduce avoidable strain on healthcare and public health systems.

APIC and its chapters are urging coordinated action at the state level, including strong support for measles vaccination, consistent and science-based public communication, enhanced disease surveillance and contact tracing, investment in wastewater monitoring as an early warning system, and strengthened coordination between healthcare facilities and public health agencies.

APIC and its local chapters stand ready to partner with governors, public health leaders, and healthcare systems to address the current outbreak and prevent further spread of measles.

About APIC

The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) is the leading professional association for infection preventionists, with more than 15,000 members. APIC's mission is to advance the science and practice of infection prevention and control to protect patients, healthcare workers, and the public.

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