US records first measles deaths of 2026

In a shocking turn of events, the United States has recorded its first measles deaths of 2026. According to local authorities in Pennsylvania, two individuals, both residents of Lancaster County, have succumbed to the highly contagious and preventable disease. This marks the first measles-related fatalities in the state since 1991.

The victims, whose identities have not been disclosed, were not vaccinated against measles. Lancaster County is home to a significant Amish population, known for typically lower vaccination rates compared to the broader American society. The tragic deaths come after three people, including two children, died from measles in 2025, signaling the resurgence of the illness following a 35-year absence of such fatalities in Pennsylvania.

Measles was officially declared eliminated in the US back in 2000, yet it has experienced a significant resurgence in recent years due to declining vaccination rates and growing skepticism towards vaccines. The crisis has been further amplified by vaccine misinformation and distrust of health authorities, notably fueled by vaccine skeptic Robert Kennedy Jr, who was once President Donald Trump's health secretary.

Dr. Andrew Racine, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, expressed deep concern over the preventable deaths, urging leaders to promote measles vaccination to curb the spread of the disease. Pediatricians are calling on policymakers to prioritize the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, to prevent a return to the days when measles was a regular occurrence in pediatric clinics.

As of now, more than 2,770 confirmed measles cases have been reported in the US in 2026, surpassing the 2,289 cases recorded in 2025, which was the previous peak. Early symptoms of measles include fever, cough, and runny nose, followed by a rash several days later. If left untreated, the virus can progress to severe complications such as pneumonia and brain inflammation, potentially leading to lasting damage or death.

While vaccination is mandatory in the US, many Americans can opt out by citing religious or philosophical beliefs. This trend has intensified since the Covid-19 pandemic, driven by a surge in vaccine misinformation and a growing distrust of health institutions.