Measles Outbreak: Infant Among Two Fatalities in Pennsylvania

Why it matters locally: While the immediate fatalities are in Pennsylvania, a national measles outbreak could prompt increased vigilance from Alabama public health agencies, including the Alabama Department of Public Health, regarding vaccination rates and disease surveillance.

Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, has confirmed two deaths related to measles, including a 6-week-old infant. The county coroner announced the fatalities on Friday, coinciding with a national report of 3,134 measles cases. This national figure represents the highest number of measles cases recorded in 35 years. Details regarding the second individual who died were not immediately released. Public health officials continue to monitor the spread of the virus across the country.