State health officials announced Tuesday that two unvaccinated residents of Lancaster County, west of Philadelphia, have died from measles. The deaths are the first measles‑related fatalities in the United States this year.
State response and public‑health context
Health Secretary Dr. Debra Bogen expressed sympathy for the families, noting that measles has been largely eliminated in Pennsylvania for more than three decades. Because the disease has been rare, many residents are unfamiliar with its potential severity.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that the United States is experiencing its worst measles year since 1991, with 2,777 cases recorded as of Thursday. The nation logged 2,289 cases in 2025, which was already the highest count in more than thirty years, and three people died from the illness last year.
Vaccination rates and exemptions
Nationally, kindergarten vaccination rates slipped last year, and the share of children with exemptions reached an all‑time high, according to recent federal data. Pennsylvania eliminated local measles transmission in 2000 by maintaining vaccination coverage above the 95% threshold needed to prevent outbreaks. Recent reports indicate that coverage has fallen below that level.
In Lancaster County, which is home to a large Amish community that often prefers limited medical intervention, about 88% of kindergarteners were up to date on their measles vaccinations during the most recent school year. The county has recorded nearly 400 measles cases this year.
Implications for measles‑free status
International health officials are scheduled to meet in November to assess whether the United States and Mexico have lost their measles‑free status. The meeting will consider the recent surge in cases and the recent deaths.
State officials continue to urge parents to keep children fully vaccinated, emphasizing that high vaccination rates remain the most effective tool for protecting communities from preventable diseases.
What families can do
Parents are encouraged to verify their children’s immunization records with local health departments and schools. The Pennsylvania Department of Health provides resources on vaccine schedules and the importance of maintaining herd immunity.
For families seeking more information, the state health department’s website offers guidance on measles symptoms, treatment options, and steps to take if exposure is suspected.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
