Pennsylvania has confirmed 1,426 measles cases across 44 counties this year, including 268 hospitalizations and five measles-associated deaths, the state Department of Health said Friday.
The total rose by 28 cases since Oct. 28, according to the department. The outbreak began in late April and has continued to produce new infections across the state, prompting an expanded public health vaccination effort in communities affected by the disease.
Cases and hospitalizations
Four of the confirmed cases — less than 1% of the total — involved people who had been vaccinated, the department said. The state’s figures include infections identified in 44 counties, but the health department did not provide a county-by-county breakdown in its latest update.
- 1,426 confirmed measles cases in Pennsylvania this year
- 268 hospitalizations
- Five confirmed measles-associated deaths
- 28 additional cases confirmed since Oct. 28
Measles, a highly contagious viral disease, can lead to serious illness, particularly when complications require hospital care. The Pennsylvania Department of Health said the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is 97% effective at preventing measles for life after two doses.
Vaccination campaign
State health center staff have administered more than 6,800 MMR vaccinations at 237 pop-up clinics in communities affected by the outbreak, the department said. The clinics are part of the state’s response since the outbreak began in April.
The department said people who believe they have been exposed and develop symptoms should contact a health care provider or call the Pennsylvania Department of Health hotline at 877-724-3258. The latest case count was issued Oct. 30.
