Measles in Pennsylvania: What to know about symptoms, vaccines and exposure

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  Staff reporting

Two people have died from measles in Lancaster County, the first deaths from the highly contagious virus in the U.S. this year and the first in Pennsylvania in 35 years, state officials confirmed Tuesday.

The deaths come as Pennsylvania has confirmed 393 cases of measles this year. Lancaster County, where the outbreak began in April, remains the center of the outbreak.

Here’s what you should know about measles.

What is measles?

Measles is a highly contagious viral respiratory illness. It spreads when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person leaves.

How serious is measles?

Measles can cause pneumonia, brain swelling and other complications. Pennsylvania health officials say nearly 20% of people who contract measles are hospitalized, and death occurs in about 1 to 3 people for every 1,000 cases.

How big is Pennsylvania’s outbreak?

As of Tuesday, Pennsylvania has confirmed 393 measles cases in 28 counties this year. The state’s outbreak began significantly growing in the spring in Lancaster County. Pennsylvania has reported the third-highest number of measles cases in the country this year.

When can I get vaccinated?

Typically, the first dose for measles is given to children around a year old. But the Pennsylvania Department of Health recommends an early dose of the vaccine for babies 6 to 11 months old who live in areas of outbreak. This will be given in addition to the traditional immunizations at 12 months old and around 4-6 years old. 

What are early symptoms?

Early symptoms can include fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes. A rash typically develops several days later, usually starting on the head and spreading downward.

How to track school vaccine numbers

Pennsylvania launched a new online tool for families to review vaccination rates for individual schools. The dashboard provides vaccination data for students in kindergarten, seventh grade and 12th grade.