Deadly measles outbreak hits Northeast as state records first deaths in 35 years

Pennsylvania confirmed two measles-related deaths on Tuesday, according to the state’s department of health.

This marks the first losses related to the highly contagious virus within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in 35 years.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) confirmed that both Lancaster County individuals were unvaccinated, noting that the best way to prevent measles infection is to get the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine .

MEASLES SURGE HITS NEW MILESTONE AS US CASES SURPASS LAST YEAR'S TOTAL The MMR vaccine administered over two doses can boost a person’s immune system and provide 97% lifetime protection, according to health officials.

In a press release, Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Dr.

Debra Bogen shared her "deepest sympathies" with the "loved ones who are facing this unimaginable loss." "Because measles was largely eliminated in the Commonwealth for more than three decades, people are not familiar with this disease and don’t fully understand the potential severity of the illness ," she said in the statement.

"We want to ensure that every Pennsylvanian has the information they need to protect themselves, their loved ones and their communities." TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ "As a physician, I want to make sure that people understand the MMR vaccine is safe and provides the best protection we have against measles." The state's DOH has confirmed 393 cases of measles in 28 counties so far in 2026.

Measles is a highly contagious virus that can be fatal in one to three patients per 1,000 cases, data shows.

The virus can cause long-term health problems, including pneumonia and brain swelling .

Nearly 20% of individuals who contract measles are hospitalized.

Measles spreads when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes, spreading the virus through respiratory droplets.

It can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after the person leaves the area, experts caution.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES Early measles symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes.

A measles rash follows a few days later, starting on the head and spreading down to the rest of the body.