Pennsylvania measles outbreak tops 900 cases, four deaths reported

September 29, 2026 at 10:59 AM1 min

This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.

Pennsylvania's measles outbreak has reached 903 cases with four deaths, according to the state health department. The outbreak has hospitalized 176 people, with Lancaster County reporting the highest number of infections. The deaths have sparked a public dispute between Governor Josh Shapiro and U.S. Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. over whether measles was the direct cause.

Key Facts

Pennsylvania has recorded 903 measles cases in the current outbreak, the state's largest in decades.
Four unvaccinated measles patients died in Pennsylvania earlier this month.
176 people have been hospitalized with measles in Pennsylvania.
Lancaster County has the highest number of measles cases in the state.
The CDC has recorded 3,659 measles cases nationwide as of September 24, 2026.

Outbreak Toll

Pennsylvania's measles outbreak has reached 903 confirmed cases, the state health department reported. Four unvaccinated patients died earlier this month, and 176 people have been hospitalized. Lancaster County remains the hardest-hit area, with the highest number of infections.

Death Count Dispute

The four deaths have triggered a public dispute between Governor Josh Shapiro and U.S. Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. The officials disagree on whether measles was the direct cause of death in all four cases. The CDC has announced a review of its measles mortality counting criteria. The agency's official statistics currently list only one confirmed measles death, without specifying a state.

National Context

As of September 24, the CDC has recorded 3,659 measles cases across the United States this year. Measles is a highly contagious viral infection causing high fever, rash, and severe respiratory complications. Two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine provide 97% protection against the virus.