2026 has been the worst year for measles in the United States in more than 35 years. Measles is highly contagious, and it will spread efficiently in communities where MMR rates have dropped below 95%.
In August, Pennsylvania reported that two unvaccinated people died of measles in Lancaster County and the Pennsylvania Department of Health (PA DOH) has confirmed 393 cases throughout 28 counties in 2026 (as of August 24, 2026).
Unvaccinated people, especially children under age 5 years, are at the highest risk for developing severe illness from measles. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Pennsylvania Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics (PA AAP) recommend routine immunization against measles and early vaccination during special circumstances, such as those living in or traveling to a community where there is an active outbreak.
In August, Pennsylvania reported that two unvaccinated people died of measles in Lancaster County and the Pennsylvania Department of Health (PA DOH) has confirmed 393 cases throughout 28 counties in 2026 (as of August 24, 2026).
Unvaccinated people, especially children under age 5 years, are at the highest risk for developing severe illness from measles. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Pennsylvania Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics (PA AAP) recommend routine immunization against measles and early vaccination during special circumstances, such as those living in or traveling to a community where there is an active outbreak.
Core Public Health Resources
Suspected measles cases should be reported promptly to local public health authorities. If you believe you, your child, or your patient may have measles, please contact 877-PA-HEALTH for reporting guidance.
AAP Measles Toolkit
AAP Measles Infection Prevention and Control FAQs
AAP Measles Vaccine
PA DOH Measles Tracker
PA DOH School Immunization Tracker
Johns Hopkins Measles Tracker
For immunization clinic information, check out the PA State Health Centers or the County and Municipal Health Departments.
AAP Measles Toolkit
AAP Measles Infection Prevention and Control FAQs
AAP Measles Vaccine
PA DOH Measles Tracker
PA DOH School Immunization Tracker
Johns Hopkins Measles Tracker
For immunization clinic information, check out the PA State Health Centers or the County and Municipal Health Departments.