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Pennsylvania measles outbreak tops 1,300 cases across 44 counties
Pennsylvania has confirmed at least 1,338 measles cases this year, including more than 250 hospitalizations and five deaths. The outbreak is part of a nationwide surge, while state officials report a sharp increase in vaccination activity.
Pennsylvania has recorded at least 1,338 measles cases across 44 counties this year, making it the hardest-hit state in a nationwide outbreak that has pushed U.S. cases to more than twice last year’s total.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health reported 21 new cases as of Oct. 21. More than 250 people have been hospitalized and five have died. Three of the deaths were among Lancaster County residents.
Nationwide, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had counted more than 4,580 cases through Oct. 22. The CDC says 96% of people diagnosed this year were unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status.
Lancaster and Mifflin counties are among the areas with the most cases. Amish communities with low vaccination rates in both counties have been particularly affected, according to state health officials.
Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen met Thursday with health care providers in Mifflin County to discuss local needs. She said hearing from people treating patients in affected communities is essential to shaping the state’s response.
Health officials say vaccination is the best protection against measles. Two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine are nearly 97% effective against the disease; one dose is about 93% effective, according to the CDC.
The state reported that providers administered more than 39,000 measles vaccines during the first three weeks of October, compared with an average of 25,000 doses in a typical month. Officials have urged residents to make sure they are fully vaccinated as cases continue to spread.