HARRISBURG, Pa. — Pennsylvania health officials have confirmed two measles-associated deaths, the state’s first deaths linked to the highly contagious virus in 35 years, as the 2026 outbreak continues spreading across the Commonwealth.
Both individuals were unvaccinated residents of Lancaster County, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Officials did not release additional identifying information out of respect for the families’ privacy.
The deaths come as Pennsylvania has confirmed 393 measles cases across 28 counties so far this year.
The outbreak began in April and has become serious enough that the state is expanding vaccination efforts ahead of the school year.
Pennsylvania has already operated 91 pop-up vaccination clinics and administered more than 4,100 MMR vaccinations through those sites. Another 40 clinics are expected to open in the coming weeks.
More than 35,000 Pennsylvanians received an MMR vaccine in July alone, roughly 10,000 more doses than during a typical month.
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in circulation.
The virus spreads through coughing, sneezing and breathing and can remain infectious in the air or on surfaces for as long as two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
Symptoms typically begin with fever, cough, runny nose and red or watery eyes. A rash usually follows several days later, beginning around the head and spreading downward.
Symptoms can appear seven to 21 days after exposure, which means people may unknowingly spread the virus before realizing they are sick.
The disease is particularly dangerous for young children and people with weakened immune systems. Complications can include pneumonia and swelling of the brain.
Pennsylvania health officials say nearly 20% of people who contract measles are hospitalized, while deaths occur in roughly one to three cases per 1,000 infections.
The state is urging anyone who believes they may have been exposed and is experiencing symptoms to contact a healthcare provider before arriving at a medical office or emergency room, allowing staff to take precautions against additional exposure.
The MMR vaccine remains the primary protection against measles. State health officials say two doses provide approximately 97% lifetime protection.
The timing is especially important as children return to classrooms and families begin spending more time indoors, creating additional opportunities for an airborne virus to spread.
Pennsylvania had not recorded a measles-associated death since 1991.
JBizNews Desk | Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
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