NewsWSVN 7 News MiamiAugust 26, 2026Miami-Dade
Pennsylvania reports first two U.S. measles deaths of the year
Two unvaccinated Lancaster County residents have died from measles, marking the first U.S. deaths from the virus this year. Pennsylvania health officials confirmed the fatalities as the state continues to promote vaccination efforts amid a national surge in cases.
Read the full story at WSVN 7 News MiamiWhy It Matters
The deaths highlight a shift in public health outcomes as national measles cases reach their highest levels since 1991, driven by declining vaccination rates.
Key Facts
- Two unvaccinated Pennsylvania residents in Lancaster County died from measles.
- These are the first measles-related deaths in the U.S. this year.
- The U.S. has recorded 2,777 measles cases this year, surpassing the total for 2025.
- The U.S. is experiencing its worst year for measles since 1991.
- Pennsylvania has recorded nearly 400 measles cases this year.
- Lancaster County's kindergarten measles vaccination rate was 88% last school year, below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity.
- Pennsylvania has vaccinated approximately 35,000 people recently, an increase from the typical monthly pace of 25,000.
- International health officials are scheduled to meet in November to review the measles-free status of the U.S. and Mexico.
- The U.S. eliminated local measles spread in 2000.
- Five measles-associated deaths have occurred in the U.S. over the last two years.
Who's Mentioned
locationLancaster County“Location of the deceased individuals”personDebra Bogen“Pennsylvania Health Secretary”other2,777“Total U.S. measles cases reported this year”personRobert F. Kennedy Jr.“U.S. Health Secretary”personJosh Shapiro“Governor of Pennsylvania”organizationCenters for Disease Control and Prevention“Federal health agency tracking measles data”personDonald Trump“President of the United States”