HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA / RankWire.AI / – The state of Pennsylvania has identified 943 cases of measles across 39 counties in 2026, according to the most recent update on the outbreak. The Pennsylvania Department of Health reported 176 hospitalizations and five deaths linked to measles up to Sept. 30. Since the last report on Sept. 28, an additional 40 cases have been recorded, indicating ongoing transmission statewide. Authorities monitor case numbers, hospitalizations, fatalities, vaccination status, and affected areas through the state’s measles dashboard.
The fifth death involved an unvaccinated resident of Lancaster County who tested positive for measles, the department confirmed. No further details were disclosed to protect privacy. The state classifies this death as measles-related within its reporting criteria. Pennsylvania has now documented five such fatalities during this outbreak. The department submitted information about the latest death to the CDC as part of national measles surveillance efforts.
Vaccination data indicates that only four of Pennsylvania’s 943 confirmed cases involved individuals properly vaccinated according to their age, accounting for less than 1% of total cases. These vaccinated individuals include three adults and one child from Centre, Jefferson, Lancaster, and Lycoming counties. Health officials are advising residents without documented immunity to consult healthcare providers or pharmacists regarding MMR vaccination for measles, mumps, and rubella.
Increase in Vaccination Efforts Across the State
During the outbreak, vaccination efforts have intensified. Providers in Pennsylvania administered more than 53,000 MMR doses in September, surpassing the usual monthly average of approximately 25,000. In August, over 49,000 doses were given. Since late April, the Department of Health staff have conducted more than 180 pop-up clinics, administering over 5,500 doses. Throughout 2026, nurses have provided more than 8,500 MMR doses through these clinics and state health centers.
The MMR vaccine offers protection against measles, mumps, and rubella. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, two doses are 97% effective at preventing measles, while a single dose provides 93% protection. Pennsylvania officials state that individuals with two documented doses do not need additional shots for routine immunity. Adults with only one dose or lacking vaccination records should consult healthcare providers. Vaccines are accessible through various providers, health departments, state clinics, and community programs statewide.
Nationwide Rise in Measles Cases in 2026
Measles transmits via airborne particles when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or breathes. The virus remains infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours. Symptoms usually appear within seven to 21 days after exposure, starting with fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A rash generally develops several days later, beginning on the head and spreading downward. People can spread measles before the rash becomes visible.
The Pennsylvania outbreak is part of a broader increase in U.S. measles cases during 2026. As of Sept. 24, the CDC confirmed 3,659 cases nationwide, across 47 jurisdictions and among international visitors. The CDC reports that 95% of these cases are linked to outbreaks. In 2025, the U.S. recorded 2,289 confirmed cases. While measles remains highly contagious, the CDC notes that the U.S. eliminated continuous domestic transmission in 2000. Pennsylvania reports state-specific data separately due to differing reporting schedules between state and federal agencies.