Two residents of Lancaster County have died after contracting measles, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Both individuals were unvaccinated, underscoring the ongoing public‑health risk posed by low immunization rates.
State officials respond
Governor Josh Shapiro joined state health officials, including Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen, for a briefing on the outbreak. Dr. Bogen expressed deep sympathy for the families, noting that measles had been largely eliminated in Pennsylvania for more than three decades, which may have contributed to a lack of public awareness about the disease’s seriousness.
Historical context
This is the first measles‑related mortality in Pennsylvania since 1991, a span of 35 years without a death from the disease. It is also the first measles death reported in the United States this year.
National trends
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that measles cases in the United States have risen sharply. In late July, the total number of confirmed cases surpassed the 2,289 reported for all of 2025, which had been the highest count in more than three decades. The current total of 2,777 cases is the highest recorded since 1991.
Vaccination recommendations
The CDC continues to recommend a two‑dose series of the measles‑mumps‑rubella (MMR) vaccine. The first dose is administered between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second dose between four and six years old. One dose provides about 93% protection, while two doses raise effectiveness to roughly 97%.
Public‑health implications
Health officials stress that measles remains highly contagious and can lead to severe complications, especially in unvaccinated populations. The recent deaths serve as a reminder of the importance of adhering to the recommended immunization schedule to protect individuals and the broader community.
What families can do
Parents and guardians are urged to verify that their children have received both doses of the MMR vaccine. Those with questions about vaccine safety or eligibility should consult their primary care provider or local health department.
Looking ahead
The Pennsylvania Department of Health will continue to monitor the outbreak, provide updates, and work with local health providers to increase vaccination coverage throughout the state.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
