Pennsylvania records fifth measles death as US endures its worst outbreak since 1991 with nearly 3,700 cases
From the Newshound archive · first published 30 September 2026 · last updated 1 October 2026.
Pennsylvania has logged 943 measles cases across 39 counties and five associated deaths in 2026, as the US records nearly 3,700 infections — its worst outbreak since 1991.
An unvaccinated Lancaster County resident has died after testing positive for measles, Pennsylvania health officials confirmed on Wednesday, marking the fifth measles-associated death of 2026. The state has now logged 943 confirmed cases in 39 counties, with 179 hospitalised, making it the hardest-hit state in the country.
Nationwide, the CDC has recorded 3,659 measles infections so far this year — the most cases since 1991 — spanning 45 states.
Tensions are growing between state and federal health authorities, with the CDC counting only two of Pennsylvania's five reported deaths as attributable to measles.
