Pennsylvania health officials confirmed 83 measles cases statewide as of June 25, 2026, with the majority linked to an outbreak in the Lebanon and Lancaster regions, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Health.
Outbreak Spreads Across Six Counties
The measles outbreak has spread to six counties in southeastern and central Pennsylvania, with Lancaster County reporting 41 cases, Lebanon County 20, Northumberland County six, and smaller numbers in Berks, Dauphin, and York counties, according to Inquirer.com. The state has recorded 84 measles cases this year, more than five times the total for all of 2025. Health Secretary Dr. Debra Bogen emphasized that the outbreak is primarily affecting unvaccinated individuals, stating, “These are not numbers. They are children, parents, neighbors and friends.”
WFMZ.com reported that 90% of unvaccinated individuals who come into contact with measles will contract the virus, highlighting the disease’s high transmissibility. Bogen reiterated that nearly 94% of Pennsylvania kindergarten students are fully vaccinated, but the outbreak underscores gaps in immunization rates among certain communities.
Health officials are conducting contact tracing to identify and isolate cases, while also working with local healthcare providers to ensure access to vaccines. The department has vaccinated over 430 people at pop-up clinics in the region in the past two months, with state-run health centers administering more than 1,300 measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine doses this year.
Public Health Response and Vaccination Efforts
The Pennsylvania Department of Health has urged residents to prioritize vaccination, particularly for infants and young children in affected areas. Officials recommend vaccinating infants as early as 6 months old, a precaution for families traveling to high-risk zones. Dr. Bogen stated, “Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect you and your family against measles,” while stressing the importance of immunity for vulnerable populations, including newborns and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Lancaster General Hospital’s Dr. Jeffrey Martin advised those suspecting measles exposure to “call ahead before seeking care” to prevent further spread. The health department is also collaborating with community organizations to build trust and encourage reporting of cases, with Bogen noting, “People who are part of the community are really the key to the response.”
Despite these efforts, local doctors have expressed concerns that the actual number of cases may exceed official reports. Fahmida McGann, an infectious disease doctor at Penn State Health’s Lancaster Medical Center, noted that the hospital has treated patients with severe complications, including electrolyte imbalances and organ dysfunction, highlighting the risks of delayed intervention.
Challenges in Containing the Outbreak
The outbreak has exposed persistent challenges in addressing vaccine hesitancy and misinformation. Bogen acknowledged that “unsubstantiated claims online” have contributed to public confusion, urging residents to rely on guidance from trusted health officials. The state has launched campaigns to disseminate accurate information about vaccine efficacy and safety, though some communities remain skeptical.
Health officials are also monitoring the situation closely, with Dr. Eugene Curly of WELLSPAN Health stating, “We are actively monitoring the situation. Working closely with our public health partners and ensuring our care team members are prepared to respond to suspected cases quickly and safely.” The department has issued recommendations for early vaccination in affected areas, aiming to curb transmission before it escalates further.
As the outbreak continues, the focus remains on expanding access to vaccines and strengthening community engagement. Bogen emphasized the state’s commitment to “not slowing down until this outbreak is over,” while urging residents to take proactive steps to protect themselves and others.
