HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA / RankWire.AI / – In 2026, Pennsylvania has documented a total of 943 confirmed cases of measles across 39 counties. The latest update from the state reports 176 hospitalizations and five deaths linked to measles through Sept. 30. The number of cases has risen by 40 since the update on Sept. 28. The Pennsylvania Department of Health continues to monitor infections, vaccination status, hospitalizations, and fatalities associated with the outbreak.
The fifth death related to measles involved an unvaccinated resident of Lancaster County who tested positive for the virus. Privacy protections prevent the release of additional personal details by state officials. All five measles-associated fatalities reported by Pennsylvania this year involved individuals who had not been vaccinated. These deaths have been reported through established public health channels as part of ongoing national surveillance efforts.
Vaccination data indicate that only four confirmed Pennsylvania cases involved individuals who were appropriately vaccinated for their age. Among these, three are adults and one is a child from Centre, Jefferson, Lancaster, and Lycoming counties. These four instances constitute less than 1% of Pennsylvania’s total confirmed cases. State health authorities continue to recommend that those without documented immunity speak with a healthcare provider or pharmacist about the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine.
Sharp Rise in MMR Vaccinations in Pennsylvania
As Pennsylvania responds to the outbreak, demand for the MMR vaccine has notably increased. Healthcare providers administered over 53,000 doses in September, a significant increase compared to the usual 25,000 doses in a typical month. In August, more than 49,000 doses were given. Since the outbreak started in late April, over 5,500 doses have been administered at 180 pop-up clinics by state health officials.
The MMR vaccine provides protection against measles, mumps, and rubella. According to federal guidelines, two doses of the vaccine are 97% effective against measles, while a single dose offers 93% protection. Generally, individuals with two documented doses do not need an additional dose for routine immunity. Adults with uncertain vaccination records or only one dose should consult with a healthcare professional to assess their protection status.
U.S. Measles Cases Continue to Rise in 2026
Measles is transmitted through the air when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or breathes. The virus can stay infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours. Typical symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and red or watery eyes. A rash usually appears several days later, often starting on the head. Symptoms can develop between seven and 21 days after exposure, and individuals can spread the virus before the rash manifests.
Pennsylvania’s outbreak is part of a broader escalation 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. This data, covering 47 reporting jurisdictions, includes infections among international travelers. Approximately 95% of these cases are linked to outbreaks. During 2025, the U.S. recorded 2,289 confirmed measles cases.