Why Two Measles Deaths in Pennsylvania Are Being Reviewed

In late August 2026 the Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed two measles-associated deaths in Lancaster County. The state reported 460 confirmed measles cases and it said the deaths were 'measles-associated' when laboratory or epidemiologic evidence of measles is present, even if the coroner does not list measles as the immediate cause. The announcement has increased public concern about the outbreak.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has not yet added those deaths to the national death tally while it reviews additional information. CDC director Erica Schwartz has requested more details, and the agency noted that available information does not establish whether measles caused or contributed to the deaths. The announcement prompted strong public statements from Governor Josh Shapiro and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., which has made the response more political while health workers continue vaccination and care efforts. Vaccination with two doses of the MMR vaccine remains about 97 percent effective and is the main prevention tool. Although deaths from measles are rare in the United States, serious complications can occur, especially in infants. Since local and federal definitions differ, health officials say reporting and review take time.