Families in Lancaster County, home to large Amish and Mennonite communities, are confronting a growing measles outbreak that has already claimed two lives—the first measles‑related deaths in the area in 35 years. The Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed nearly 400 cases statewide this year, with about half occurring in Lancaster County.
Infants exposed in NICU
Brittany Nicole Sponenberg’s premature son, who has been in the neonatal intensive care unit at Geisinger Medical Center for almost two months, was exposed to measles when an adult visitor fell ill between August 14 and August 17. The visitor developed fever and a rash on August 17 and tested positive for measles the following day. Sponenberg was not informed of the exposure until three days later, after her son had already been transferred to a hospital closer to home.
Doctors told the family the infant’s risk of contracting measles was low, but he will receive an additional medication via thigh injection and remain in isolation for up to 28 days. The hospital has also revised its visitation policy: only parents or legal guardians without measles symptoms will be allowed in the NICU, and they will be asked to wear surgical masks.
Community impact and parental concerns
Local driver Kimberly Reichenbach, who has been transporting Amish customers for years, quit after she and her partner—both with health conditions—were asked to transport clients who might have been exposed. “If I get sick, who’s going to take care of my family?” she said, highlighting the anxiety of immune‑compromised residents.
Hospitals across the region, including Penn State’s Golisano Children’s Hospital and UPMC Children’s Hospital, have reported similar exposures. Dr. Jeffrey Martin of Lancaster General Health urged anyone who suspects measles to call ahead before visiting a medical facility, allowing staff to prepare and protect vulnerable patients.
Why vaccination rates matter
While Amish and Mennonite families do not universally reject vaccines, their vaccination rates are lower than the broader population, contributing to the rapid spread. Health officials stress that children under five are especially prone to severe complications such as pneumonia and brain swelling.
Experts note that hospitals rarely restrict parental access unless the parent has a highly contagious disease like tuberculosis. The new screening measures rely on accurate information from visitors, underscoring the importance of community cooperation during the outbreak.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
