Pennsylvania reports first 2 measles deaths in the US this year, both people unvaccinated

Philadelphia, PA – Two unvaccinated individuals in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania have succumbed to measles, marking the first fatalities from the virus in the United States this year. State Health Secretary Dr. Debra Bogen expressed her condolences, emphasizing the severity of the illness. The U.S. has experienced five measles-related deaths in the past two years, surpassing the total over the previous three decades.

As of Thursday, the CDC reported 2,777 measles cases this year, surpassing the 2025 total. International health officials will convene in November to assess whether the U.S. and Mexico have lost their measles-free status. The measles outbreak coincides with the Trump administration's push to reduce childhood vaccinations, despite scientific evidence refuting vaccine safety concerns.

Governor Josh Shapiro criticized the administration's rhetoric, stating it negatively impacts communities. Federal health officials conveyed condolences to the affected families and communities, reiterating the importance of the MMR vaccine in preventing measles.