The Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed two measles-associated deaths in unvaccinated Lancaster County residents, marking the state’s first measles-related deaths in 35 years. Health officials did not release additional information about the individuals, citing privacy concerns. Pennsylvania has reported hundreds of measles cases across 28 counties in 2026.
The deaths prompted widespread online discussion about the severity of measles and the importance of vaccination. Many commenters encouraged vaccination and described the deaths as preventable, while others questioned whether measles was responsible for the deaths, minimized the risk of the disease, or argued that outbreaks in communities with low vaccination rates pose little risk to the broader public. False and misleading claims about MMR vaccine safety also circulated, along with claims that vitamin A and other treatments can replace vaccination. Some commenters asked whether adults vaccinated as children need a booster, whether vaccinated people should be concerned about outbreaks, and how to protect themselves after a potential exposure.
Recommendation
Online conversation about the deaths highlights gaps in understanding about the potential severity of measles and who may be affected by outbreaks. Health communicators may explain that measles can cause serious complications, including pneumonia and brain swelling, and can lead to death. Messaging may also clarify that measles-associated complications can cause death and that describing a death as measles-associated does not mean measles was incidental to the person’s illness.
Communicators may emphasize that measles can spread beyond communities experiencing outbreaks and that high vaccination coverage helps protect people who cannot be vaccinated or may not develop full protection from vaccination. Messaging may reinforce that two doses of the MMR vaccine provide about 97 percent protection against measles and that most people who received two doses do not need a booster. People who are unsure of their vaccination status or believe they were exposed to measles may be encouraged to contact a health care provider for guidance.
Resource Links: Reuters
Communication resources: Find talking points, resources, and tools to help you communicate about measles
