What You Need to Know
• Pennsylvania reported its first two measles-related deaths in 35 years, according to the state health department.
• Both deceased individuals were unvaccinated and resided in Lancaster County, where the deaths occurred.
• The state has confirmed 393 measles cases across 29 counties this year, with nationwide cases at a 35-year high.
Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen announced on Tuesday that the state has recorded its first two deaths linked to measles in 35 years. The fatalities, which occurred in Lancaster County, involved individuals who were not vaccinated against the virus. So far in 2023, the state has seen 393 confirmed measles cases across 29 counties, reflecting a concerning trend as measles cases nationwide have reached their highest levels in over three decades. Dr. Bogen emphasized the importance of vaccination, stating that the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective in preventing the disease.
Why It Matters
The resurgence of measles in Pennsylvania highlights the critical importance of vaccination in preventing outbreaks. Historically, measles was largely eliminated in the state for over 30 years, leading to decreased public awareness of the disease’s severity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that a vaccination rate of 95% is necessary for herd immunity, yet current figures show that only 92.4% of kindergarteners were vaccinated against measles during the 2025-26 school year. This decline in vaccination rates, coupled with the recent deaths, underscores the ongoing public health challenge posed by vaccine hesitancy and misinformation.
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