The Pennsylvania Department of Health announced Tuesday that two unvaccinated residents have died from measles, the first measles-related deaths reported in the United States this year. Both victims were identified as individuals who had not received the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
National surge puts the country on alert
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), measles cases across the nation have risen sharply in 2026. By the end of July, the total number of confirmed cases for the year already surpassed the entire count for 2025, making 2026 the worst measles year since the 1991 outbreak.
In 2025, three measles-related deaths were recorded, according to CDC data. The recent Pennsylvania deaths bring the 2026 total to two, underscoring the growing public‑health risk posed by declining vaccination rates.
Why the increase?
Public‑health officials attribute the surge to pockets of unvaccinated populations, often linked to misinformation about vaccine safety and a growing reluctance among some parents to follow recommended immunization schedules. The Trump administration has repeatedly emphasized the importance of parental choice while also supporting efforts to educate families about the proven safety and effectiveness of vaccines.
President Trump’s administration continues to work with state health departments to ensure that accurate information reaches families, reinforcing the constitutional right of parents to make informed decisions for their children while protecting the broader community from preventable disease.
What Pennsylvania is doing
State health officials are urging Pennsylvanians to verify their vaccination status and to seek the MMR vaccine if they have not already done so. The department is also coordinating with local health providers to increase access to vaccination clinics, especially in underserved areas.
Parents are encouraged to consult their pediatricians and to review the CDC’s vaccination schedule, which recommends the first dose of the MMR vaccine at 12‑15 months of age and a second dose at 4‑6 years.
How you can stay informed
The CDC’s “Get the Facts” data team maintains an up‑to‑date tracker of measles cases by state. Residents can monitor the spread in their area by visiting the CDC’s website or contacting their local health department.
Community leaders, churches, and schools are also playing a role by disseminating factual information and offering vaccination resources to families. By working together, local faith‑based groups and health officials hope to curb the outbreak and protect vulnerable children.
Looking ahead
Health experts warn that without a concerted effort to increase vaccination coverage, measles could continue to climb, putting more lives at risk. The Trump administration remains committed to supporting state‑level initiatives that respect parental rights while promoting public‑health safety.
For the latest updates on measles cases in Pennsylvania and across the nation, visit the CDC’s measles tracker or contact your local health department.
Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.
