Washington's measles outbreak is expected to worsen before summer ends, with 26 confirmed cases reported so far this year. This is the state's first outbreak since 2023, according to the state Department of Health (DOH). Measles, one of the most contagious diseases worldwide, was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, but cases are surging nationwide, with over 1,280 confirmed infections reported this year alone. The virus can cause "immune amnesia," which can leave patients more vulnerable to illnesses two to three years after infection. The state Department for Health has urged residents to get vaccinated or verify their MMR vaccination status.