NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 25, 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 related to the virus this year. Pennsylvania health officials confirmed the deaths as the state and nation face a significant surge in measles cases amid declining vaccination rates.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10 – Main FeedWhy It Matters
The deaths highlight the return of a disease previously considered eliminated in the U.S., impacting public health policy and vaccination requirements for residents.
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 as of Thursday, surpassing the total count for 2025.
- There have been five measles-associated deaths in the U.S. over the last two years.
- The U.S. eliminated local measles spread in 2000, but vaccination rates have since fallen below the 95% threshold needed to prevent outbreaks.
- Pennsylvania has recorded nearly 400 measles cases this year.
- Approximately 35,000 people in Pennsylvania have been vaccinated recently, an increase from the typical 25,000 per month.
- In Lancaster County, 88% of kindergartners were up to date on measles vaccines during the last school year.
- International health officials will meet in November to determine if the U.S. and Mexico retain their measles-free status.
Who's Mentioned
locationLancaster County“Location of the deceased individuals”personDebra Bogen“Pennsylvania Health Secretary”other2,777“Total U.S. measles cases reported as of Thursday”personRobert F. Kennedy Jr.“U.S. Health Secretary”personJosh Shapiro“Governor of Pennsylvania”organizationCenters for Disease Control and Prevention“Federal health agency”personDonald Trump“President of the United States”