(CNN) Measles cases in the United States have surpassed the highest number on record since the disease was declared eliminated nationwide in 2000. "The longer these outbreaks continue, the greater the chance measles will again get a sustained foothold in the United States." By 2000, when there were only 86 cases, measles was declared eliminated from the United States, meaning there was no continuous transmission of the disease for more than 12 months. Since 2000, the annual number of reported measles cases has ranged from 37 people in 2004 to 667 in 2014. Experts say the benefits outweigh the risks when it comes to the measles vaccine.

Source: CNN April 24, 2019 15:33 UTC