Two Unvaccinated People Die in Pennsylvania Measles Outbreak

PUBLISHED Aug 25, 2026, 1:43 PM ET

Pennsylvania reported two measles-associated deaths on Aug. 25, the first such deaths in the state in 35 years and the first reported in the United States this year. The Pennsylvania Department of Health said both unvaccinated victims were residents of Lancaster County, but released no identifying information. The state reported 393 confirmed measles cases across 28 counties in 2026 currently. Reuters reported Lancaster County had 185 cases, while WHYY cited 177, reflecting different reporting updates. The CDC reported 2,777 confirmed U.S. cases through Aug. 20, the highest annual total since 1991. Nearly 20% of Pennsylvania measles patients have been hospitalized, according to state officials. Pennsylvania has expanded vaccination outreach, administering more than 4,100 MMR doses through pop-up clinics and planning 40 additional clinics. Health Secretary Debra Bogen urged vaccination, saying MMR remains the best available protection. Officials have not publicly identified the deceased or described their individual medical circumstances publicly.

By Daniel Hayes | JQJO News

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 21
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 3
Neutral:: 17

Explain Framing

Left: Coverage emphasizes vaccination decline, misinformation, policy concerns, and vulnerable communities. Center: Coverage emphasizes confirmed deaths, outbreak numbers, vaccination status, and official statements. Right: Coverage emphasizes personal responsibility, vaccine hesitancy, and government policy consequences.