Story perspectives

Pennsylvania Reports 35-Year First Measles Deaths in Lancaster County

8/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

Two unvaccinated Lancaster County residents died of measles-associated complications, Pennsylvania’s first measles deaths in 35 years.
The county coroner is investigating one death and a newborn’s death after a positive measles test and ruptured spleen.
Pennsylvania Department of Health reported 424 confirmed measles cases statewide, with 73 patients hospitalized for complications.
Lancaster County’s MMR vaccination rate fell from 95.5% in 2017 to 87.6% in 2025.

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Story summary

Two unvaccinated Lancaster County residents died of measles-associated complications, Pennsylvania’s first measles deaths in 35 years.
The county coroner is investigating one death and a newborn’s death after a positive measles test and ruptured spleen.
Pennsylvania Department of Health reported 424 confirmed measles cases statewide, with 73 patients hospitalized for complications.
Lancaster County’s MMR vaccination rate fell from 95.5% in 2017 to 87.6% in 2025.