Pa. Confirms 2 More Measles-associated Deaths

September 15, 2026

Pennsylvania’s public health officials today announced two more measles-associated deaths, bringing the statewide total to four.

“My thoughts are with the two families who lost loved ones to this highly-contagious virus, as Pennsylvania faces the worst measles outbreak in more than three decades,” said Dr. Debra Bogen, state health secretary.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Background:  The two individuals lived in Jefferson and Mifflin counties. The state is not releasing any additional details due to legal concerns.
• Measles-associated definition:  The announcement came after an investigation that confirmed clinical evidence of a measles infection; a positive laboratory test; and that the death was not due to an unrelated cause.
• Overall trend:  Pennsylvania leads the nation with nearly 700 confirmed measles cases this year. About 3,294 confirmed cases have been reported nationwide.
• Bottom line:  With the ongoing outbreak, public health leaders continue to focus on vaccination. The MMR vaccine provides 97 percent protection against the virus after two doses.
• Quotable:  “We remain committed to working with our partners across Pennsylvania to stem this outbreak and prevent more deaths. That means ensuring people have the facts about measles and access to the MMR vaccine—which kept measles outbreaks at bay for decades,” Bogen said.

If you believe you were exposed to measles, and are experiencing symptoms, contact your health care provider or call the state’s toll-free hotline at 877-PA-HEALTH (877-724-3258). Contacting your health care provider allows time for precautions to prevent the spread of the virus.

Additional information is available online.