Families in Lancaster County are confronting a growing measles outbreak that is threatening the most defenseless patients in local hospitals. The virus, the world’s most contagious infection, has spread through unvaccinated communities, including Amish and Mennonite families, and has now reached neonatal intensive care units.
Infants exposed at Geisinger Medical Center
Brittany Nicole Sponenberg’s premature son, who has been in the NICU at Geisinger Medical Center for nearly two months, was exposed to measles by an adult visitor between August 14 and August 17. The visitor developed a fever and rash on August 17 and tested positive for measles the following day. Sponenberg was not notified of the exposure until three days later, after her son had already been transferred to a closer hospital.
The hospital’s doctor described the infant’s risk of contracting measles as low but recommended an additional medication administered via an injection in each thigh and placement in an isolation room with special air circulation. The baby will remain under observation for 28 days.
Community impact and personal stories
Kimberly Reichenbach, a 50‑year‑old former corrections officer who now drives Amish customers, quit driving after she and her partner, who has type 1 diabetes, transported clients who were sick or had been exposed to measles. She worries about the safety of her own teen daughter and family.
Two measles‑related deaths were reported in Lancaster County this week, the first such fatalities in the area in 35 years. The deaths underscore the seriousness of the outbreak for those who cannot be vaccinated due to age, health conditions, or immune‑system limitations.
Hospital response and public‑health advice
Geisinger Medical Center has revised its screening protocols. Going forward, only parents or legal guardians without measles symptoms will be allowed in the NICU, and they will be asked to wear surgical masks. The hospital emphasized that accurate health information at entry is essential to protect patients, visitors, and staff.
Dr. Jeffrey Martin of Lancaster General Health urged anyone who suspects they may have measles to call ahead before visiting a hospital, clinic, or urgent‑care center. Early notification allows staff to prepare safe evaluation areas and minimize exposure to vulnerable patients.
Why the outbreak matters for families
Measles can cause severe complications in children under five, including pneumonia and brain swelling. Premature infants are especially at risk because they lack transferred maternal antibodies and often rely on medical devices that bypass natural skin barriers.
Public‑health officials continue to stress the importance of vaccination for eligible individuals and heightened vigilance for those who cannot be vaccinated. Parents are encouraged to monitor for fever, rash, or other symptoms and seek medical advice promptly.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
