First two U.S. measles deaths reported in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania announced the first two U.S. measles deaths this year, which comprised the first Pennsylvania measles deaths in more than 35 years. The victims, including an infant, were unvaccinated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends individuals receive two measles, mumps and rubella vaccine doses, the first at 12 to 15 months and the second between 4 and 6 years old. The CDC says two doses are 97% effective against the disease. The Pennsylvania Department of Health urges babies to get their first MMR dose at 6 months if they live in or traveling to an area with a measles outbreak. Separately, the Health and Human Services Department seeks public feedback on vaccine guidance following the release of President Trump’s largely criticized vaccine executive order. (ABC News article, 8/25/26)