Pennsylvania’s measles outbreak continued to worsen today, with 68 new infections reported since Wednesday of last week, bringing the total to 903 as the state grapples with its worst measles resurgence in decades.
Pennsylvania’s health department data released today showed that 176 measles patients had been hospitalized, up from 164 reported on Sept. 23. Lancaster County, which has the highest number of cases, remains the hardest-hit area in the state.
Pennsylvania reported four measles-related deaths among unvaccinated residents earlier this month, sparking a disagreement between Gov. Josh Shapiro and U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over how many of the fatalities were directly caused by the virus.
Soon after, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said it was reviewing how it classifies measles-related deaths. The CDC’s website now lists one verified measles death but did not confirm where the death occurred.
The U.S. has recorded 3,659 measles cases this year as of Sept. 24, according to CDC data.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause fever, rash and respiratory complications, but it can be easily prevented with the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, a routine childhood immunization that provides 97% protection after two doses.
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