Third measles death recorded in US in 2026

A 40-year-old unvaccinated woman in Pennsylvania has died from measles complications, marking the third measles-related death in the United States so far in 2026. This tragic event comes as vaccination rates decline and concerns about the vaccine persist. The victim, from Jefferson County, was reported to be unvaccinated. Jefferson County Chief Deputy Coroner Jason Stiver emphasized that measles should not be taken lightly, even though cases of severe illness remain uncommon.

Two measles-related deaths were recorded in August in Pennsylvania's Lancaster County, the first such deaths in the U.S. in 2026 and the first in Pennsylvania in 35 years. Lancaster is home to a significant Amish population, known for lower vaccination rates compared to the broader American society. Measles, declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, has seen a resurgence in recent years due to new vaccine skepticism and distrust of health authorities.

Despite nearly 3,300 confirmed measles cases in 2026, surpassing the 2025 total of 2,289, measles remains a highly contagious and preventable disease. Early symptoms include fever, cough, and runny nose, followed by a rash a few days later. Complications such as pneumonia and brain inflammation, which can lead to severe and lasting damage or death, can also occur.