HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA / RankWire.AI / – Pennsylvania has documented a total of 943 confirmed measles cases across 39 counties in 2026. The state’s latest update also reports 176 hospitalizations and five deaths linked to measles through Sept. 30. The case count rose by 40 since the update on Sept. 28. The Pennsylvania Department of Health continues to monitor infection rates, vaccination statuses, hospitalizations, and fatalities connected to the outbreak.
The fifth death related to measles involved an unvaccinated individual from Lancaster County who tested positive for the virus. No additional personal details were disclosed to protect privacy. All five measles-related deaths in Pennsylvania this year involved unvaccinated persons. These fatalities have been officially reported via established public health channels as part of ongoing national surveillance efforts.
Vaccination data indicate that only four confirmed cases involved individuals who had been appropriately vaccinated for their age—three adults and one child from Centre, Jefferson, Lancaster, and Lycoming counties. These cases account for less than 1% of the state’s total confirmed cases. Officials continue to recommend that individuals without documented immunity consult healthcare providers about the MMR vaccine.
Pennsylvania Experiences Significant Rise in MMR Vaccination Rates
The demand for the MMR vaccine has surged as Pennsylvania responds to the outbreak. Healthcare providers administered over 53,000 doses in September, substantially higher than the typical monthly total of around 25,000. During August, more than 49,000 doses were also given. Since late April, over 5,500 doses have been administered 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 provide 97% immunity against measles, while a single dose offers 93%. Individuals with two documented doses generally do not need additional shots for routine protection. Adults uncertain of their vaccination history or with only one documented dose should discuss their status with a healthcare professional.
National Measles Cases Rise During 2026
Measles transmits through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. The virus can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours. Common symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and red or watery eyes. A rash typically appears days later, often beginning on the head. Symptoms may develop between seven and 21 days after exposure, and individuals can spread measles before rash onset.
Pennsylvania’s outbreak is part of a broader national increase in measles activity. As of Sept. 24, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed 3,659 cases across 47 jurisdictions, including infections among international visitors. Approximately 95% of these cases are linked to outbreaks. In all of 2025, the U.S. recorded 2,289 confirmed measles cases.