TwikUp Brief
Pennsylvania has recorded its first measles-related deaths in 35 years.
Both people who died were unvaccinated residents of Lancaster County.
Pennsylvania has reported 393 confirmed measles cases across 28 counties in 2026.
Pennsylvania health officials have confirmed two measles-associated deaths, marking the state's first deaths related to the highly contagious disease in 35 years.
Both individuals were unvaccinated residents of Lancaster County. The Pennsylvania Department of Health did not release additional information about the victims, citing privacy concerns.
The deaths come as Pennsylvania continues to deal with a significant measles outbreak.
Pennsylvania has confirmed 393 measles cases across 28 counties so far in 2026.
Lancaster County has been one of the main areas affected by the outbreak, with a significant share of the state's reported infections.
The latest deaths have increased concerns among health officials about the continued spread of measles in communities where vaccination coverage has declined.
The two deaths are Pennsylvania's first measles-related fatalities in 35 years.
Measles had been largely eliminated in the Commonwealth for more than three decades, meaning many people may not have direct experience with the serious complications that can result from infection.
Pennsylvania Health Secretary Dr. Debra Bogen urged residents to understand the potential severity of the disease and emphasized vaccination as the best protection.
Health officials confirmed that both people who died were unvaccinated.
Measles is highly contagious and can spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or breathes.
People who have not received protection against the virus are at greater risk of infection when they are exposed.
The measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, commonly known as the MMR vaccine, is the main protection against measles.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health says two doses provide about 97% protection against measles.
Health officials continue to encourage eligible people to remain up to date with recommended vaccinations.
Measles can begin with symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose and red or watery eyes.
A characteristic rash can appear several days after the initial symptoms.
Although many people recover, measles can sometimes lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling and other health problems.
Health officials and public-health experts have pointed to declining vaccination coverage as an important factor behind the increase in measles cases.
When vaccination levels fall, communities can become more vulnerable to outbreaks because fewer people have protection against the virus.
Pennsylvania officials are continuing vaccination and public-awareness efforts in areas experiencing higher levels of transmission.
Lancaster County remains a major focus of Pennsylvania's measles response.
Earlier this month, the Pennsylvania Department of Health warned about potential measles exposures at locations in the county, including Millersville University and a Whole Foods Market.
Officials advised people who may have been exposed and are not vaccinated to check their vaccination status and contact a healthcare provider if necessary.
The state health department is continuing to monitor cases, investigate potential exposures and encourage vaccination.
Pennsylvania has also been working to increase vaccination rates in communities where coverage has fallen.
The department says vaccination remains the strongest available protection against measles.
Pennsylvania's outbreak is part of a wider measles resurgence in the United States.
The country has recorded 2,777 confirmed measles cases in 2026 as of August 20, according to data cited by Reuters.
That makes 2026 the highest-case year in the United States in more than three decades.
People who believe they may have been exposed to measles should check their vaccination status and contact a healthcare professional for guidance.
People who develop symptoms after a possible exposure should contact their healthcare provider before visiting a medical facility so staff can take appropriate precautions.
Pennsylvania health officials are continuing to track the outbreak and work to increase vaccination coverage.
The state is also monitoring potential exposures and new infections as officials attempt to prevent further transmission.
The two deaths have highlighted the potential severity of measles and the importance of maintaining vaccination protection.
Pennsylvania's two measles-associated deaths mark a significant public-health development after the state went 35 years without a measles-related fatality.
The deaths occurred amid an ongoing outbreak that has produced hundreds of confirmed cases across the state.
Health officials continue to emphasize vaccination as the most effective way to protect individuals and communities from measles.
Pennsylvania's latest measles deaths highlight the risks of declining vaccination coverage. With hundreds of confirmed cases reported across the state, health officials are continuing to focus on vaccination, exposure monitoring and public awareness.
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Pennsylvania has confirmed two measles-associated deaths, the state's first such deaths in 35 years.
Both individuals were unvaccinated residents of Lancaster County.
Pennsylvania has confirmed 393 cases across 28 counties in 2026, according to the latest reporting.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health says two doses of the MMR vaccine provide about 97% protection against measles.
People who may have been exposed and are not vaccinated should check their vaccination status and contact a healthcare provider or the Pennsylvania Department of Health for guidance.
