HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA / RankWire.AI / – As of 2026, Pennsylvania reports a total of 943 confirmed measles cases spread across 39 counties. The latest update from the state indicates 176 hospitalizations and five deaths linked to measles through September 30. The case count has increased by 40 since the update on September 28. The Pennsylvania Department of Health maintains ongoing monitoring of infections, vaccination coverage, hospitalizations, and fatalities associated with the outbreak.
In Lancaster County, the fifth measles-related death involved an individual who had not been vaccinated and tested positive for the virus. Due to privacy protections, officials have not disclosed additional personal information. All five measles-associated fatalities reported by Pennsylvania this year involved unvaccinated persons. These deaths have been officially reported through established public health channels as part of the nation’s ongoing surveillance efforts.
Vaccination data reveal that only four confirmed cases in Pennsylvania involved individuals who were properly vaccinated for their age group. This includes three adults and one child from Centre, Jefferson, Lancaster, and Lycoming counties. These four cases account for less than 1% of the state’s total confirmed cases. Public health officials continue to recommend that unprotected individuals consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist regarding the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
Pennsylvania experiences notable rise in MMR vaccination efforts
In response to the outbreak, demand for the MMR vaccine has surged across Pennsylvania. Healthcare providers administered over 53,000 doses in September, compared to roughly 25,000 doses typically given in a regular month. August saw more than 49,000 doses administered. Since late April, over 5,500 doses have been distributed at 180 pop-up clinics by state health officials.
The MMR vaccine offers protection against measles, mumps, and rubella. According to federal guidance, two doses confer 97% immunity against measles, while a single dose provides 93% protection. Individuals with documented two-dose vaccinations generally do not need additional doses for routine prevention. Adults with uncertain vaccination records or only one documented dose should review their vaccination status with a healthcare professional.
U.S. measles cases continue to grow in 2026
Measles transmits through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. The virus can remain infectious on surfaces and in the air for up to two hours. Common symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and red or watery eyes. A rash typically appears several days after initial symptoms, often starting on the head. Symptoms can develop between seven and 21 days post-exposure, and individuals can spread measles before the rash becomes visible.
Pennsylvania’s outbreak is part of a broader increase in measles activity across the United States this year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed 3,659 cases nationwide as of Sept. 24. Data from 47 reporting jurisdictions, including cases among international visitors, were included. Approximately 95% of these cases were linked to outbreaks. In 2025, the U.S. recorded a total of 2,289 confirmed measles cases.