Pennsylvania health department reports 2 measles deaths in Lancaster County
Updated on: August 25, 2026 / 6:08 PM EDT / CBS Philadelphia
TL;DR
- Pennsylvania recorded its first two measles deaths in 35 years.
- The deceased individuals were unvaccinated and resided in Lancaster County.
- This marks the first measles deaths in the Commonwealth in over three decades.
- Nationwide, measles cases are at their highest in 35 years.
- Pennsylvania has had 393 confirmed measles cases in 29 counties this year.
- Health officials stress the safety and protection offered by the MMR vaccine.
- Nationally, measles vaccination rates for kindergarteners have declined.
- A 95% vaccination rate is required for herd immunity against measles.