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Ralph Abraham

Ralph Abraham

CDC Principal Deputy Director

Appears in 1 story

Notable Quotes

"Not really... You know, it's just the cost of doing business, with our borders being somewhat porous [and] global and international travel." — January 20, 2026, on whether losing measles elimination status would be significant

"We have these communities that choose to be unvaccinated. That's their personal freedom." — January 20, 2026

Stories

America's measles elimination status at risk

Rule Changes

Active

The United States declared measles eliminated in 2000—the culmination of decades of vaccination campaigns against the most contagious virus known to infect humans. On January 22, 2026, that achievement formally entered jeopardy when the country passed one year and two days of continuous transmission starting in West Texas. As of mid-February 2026, the crisis has accelerated with CDC confirming 910 cases across 24 states so far this year—90% outbreak-associated—while South Carolina's outbreak exploded to 950 cases by February 13, prompting a looming April PAHO review likely to revoke elimination status.

Updated Feb 15