HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA / RankWire.AI / – Across 39 counties in 2026, Pennsylvania has reported a total of 943 confirmed measles cases. The latest update from the state also indicates 176 hospitalizations and five deaths linked to measles as of Sept. 30. The number of cases rose by 40 compared to the update on Sept. 28. The Pennsylvania Department of Health continues to monitor the situation, including tracking infections, vaccination statuses, hospital admissions, and fatalities associated with the outbreak.
The fifth death attributed to measles involved an unvaccinated individual from Lancaster County who tested positive for the virus. No additional personal details have been released to protect privacy. All five measles-related fatalities reported in Pennsylvania this year involve individuals who were not vaccinated. Public health authorities have reported these deaths through established channels as part of ongoing national surveillance efforts.
Vaccination data show that just four confirmed cases in Pennsylvania involved individuals who had received the appropriate vaccines for their age. This group consists of three adults and one child from Centre, Jefferson, Lancaster, and Lycoming counties. These four cases make up less than 1% of Pennsylvania’s total confirmed cases. Officials continue to recommend that individuals lacking documented immunity seek advice from a healthcare professional regarding the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine.
Pennsylvania Experiences a Notable Surge in MMR Vaccination Rates
As Pennsylvania responds to the ongoing outbreak, demand for the MMR vaccine has increased substantially. Healthcare providers administered over 53,000 doses in September alone, a significant jump from the approximately 25,000 doses typically given each month. During August, more than 49,000 doses were administered. Since late April, over 5,500 doses have been given 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 of the vaccine provide 97% immunity against measles, while a single dose offers 93% protection. Usually, individuals with two documented doses do not need additional doses for routine immunity. Adults who lack complete records or have only received one dose should consult a healthcare provider to evaluate their vaccination needs.
Measles Cases Rise Nationally in 2026
Measles transmits through the air when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or breathes, with the virus capable of remaining infectious on surfaces and in the air for up to two hours. Common symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and red or watery eyes. A rash typically develops several days later, often starting on the head. Symptoms can appear between seven and 21 days after exposure, and people may spread the virus before the rash shows.
The outbreak in Pennsylvania is part of a broader increase in measles activity across the United States this year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed 3,659 cases nationwide as of Sept. 24, covering 47 reporting jurisdictions and including infections among international visitors. Approximately 95% of these confirmed cases are linked to outbreaks. In comparison, the United States recorded 2,289 confirmed measles cases throughout 2025.