Measles Surge: PA County Confirms Cases as U.S. Faces Alert

Pennsylvania has reported its initial five measles cases of 2026, all in unvaccinated children and young adults within Lancaster County. This outbreak is part of a larger national surge, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirming 733 cases across more than a dozen states as of February 5, 2026. The United States is now at risk of losing its measles-free status in the coming months.

Health experts, like Dr. Joseph Aracri, emphasize the critical importance of vaccination in combating the resurgence of this highly contagious disease. He notes that widespread misinformation about vaccines contributes to declining vaccination rates. The measles vaccine, with two doses, is 97% effective, significantly reducing the chance of infection and the severity of illness for the rare few who still contract it. Concerns remain high for unvaccinated individuals, as measles can lead to severe complications including pneumonia, long-term breathing issues, cognitive problems, seizures, hospitalization, and even death.