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Getting the latest healthcare news for you
Pennsylvania records its first measles deaths in over 30 years as the U.S. measles crisis worsens. Two unvaccinated residents of Lancaster County — the epicenter of the state's outbreak — have died, marking the first measles deaths in the country in 2026. With over 2,700 cases nationally, experts warn the U.S. could lose its measles elimination status this year.
Two unvaccinated Pennsylvania residents have died from measles — the state's first measles deaths in more than 30 years and the first in the U.S. in 2026. Both lived in Lancaster County, the epicenter of Pennsylvania's outbreak, which has recorded at least 390 cases and 70 hospitalizations. Health officials noted that Lancaster County has historically had lower vaccination rates than the rest of the state.
Nationally, the picture is equally alarming. The U.S. has now surpassed 2,777 measles cases in 2026 — the highest count in 35 years — after already exceeding last year's total back in July. The MMR vaccine offers 97% lifetime protection, and the CDC confirms that most infections are occurring in unvaccinated individuals. Adding to concerns, President Trump signed an executive order to split the childhood MMR vaccine into three separate shots, a move health experts warn will reduce vaccination uptake and leave communities more vulnerable.
By the Numbers:
Why it matters: The U.S. declared measles eliminated 26 years ago, but that status is now seriously at risk. With rising cases, two deaths, and a policy shift that could further dampen vaccination rates, public health experts fear 2026 could mark a historic and dangerous turning point.
