HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA / RankWire.AI / – In 2026, Pennsylvania has identified a total of 943 measles cases spread over 39 counties, according to the latest update from the state. The Pennsylvania Department of Health documented 176 hospitalizations and five deaths associated with measles up to September 30. Since the previous report on September 28, an additional 40 cases have been recorded, indicating ongoing transmission statewide. The department monitors cases, hospitalizations, fatalities, vaccination status, and affected regions through its measles dashboard.
The fifth death involved an unvaccinated individual from Lancaster County who had tested positive for measles, the department confirmed. No further personal details were disclosed to protect privacy. The death is classified as measles-related under the state’s reporting criteria. Pennsylvania has now reported five such fatalities in the context of the 2026 outbreak. This latest death has been reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as part of the national measles surveillance efforts.
Analysis of vaccination records reveals that only four of Pennsylvania’s 943 confirmed cases involved individuals who had been vaccinated appropriately for their age. This accounts for less than 1% of all confirmed cases in the state. The four vaccinated individuals include three adults and one child from Centre, Jefferson, Lancaster, and Lycoming counties. State health officials advise residents without documented proof of immunity to consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist regarding measles, mumps, and rubella vaccinations.
Vaccination efforts escalate across Pennsylvania
During the outbreak, vaccination activities have intensified. Pennsylvania healthcare providers administered over 53,000 MMR doses in September, more than doubling the typical monthly total of approximately 25,000. In August, providers administered over 49,000 doses. Additionally, the Pennsylvania Department of Health has distributed more than 5,500 doses at 180 pop-up clinics since the outbreak’s onset in late April. Throughout 2026, department nurses have administered upwards of 8,500 MMR doses via these clinics and state health centers.
The MMR vaccine offers protection against measles, mumps, and rubella. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, two doses of MMR are 97% effective at preventing measles, while a single dose provides 93% protection. Pennsylvania officials state that individuals with two documented doses do not require an additional dose for routine immunity. Adults with only one dose or lacking vaccination records should consult a healthcare professional about getting vaccinated. Access to vaccines is available through providers, health departments, state health centers, and community programs participating in immunization efforts.
Measles cases increase across the United States
Measles spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can stay infectious in the air and on surfaces for as long as two hours. Initial symptoms typically include fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A rash generally appears several days later, starting on the head and progressing downward. Symptoms can develop anywhere from seven to 21 days after exposure. People infected with measles can transmit the virus before the rash manifests.
The outbreak in Pennsylvania is part of a broader increase in U.S. measles activity during 2026. The CDC confirmed 3,659 cases nationwide as of September 24, involving cases across 47 reporting jurisdictions and international visitors. The agency noted that 95% of these cases are linked to outbreaks. In comparison, the United States documented 2,289 confirmed cases throughout 2025. The CDC emphasizes that measles remains highly contagious, although the United States eliminated sustained domestic transmission in 2000. Pennsylvania reports its figures separately due to differing state and federal reporting schedules.