Measles on the Move: Are YOU and Your Kids Safe? Shocking Local Cases Revealed!

Just a few years ago, measles was hailed as eliminated in the United States, but recent data shows a concerning resurgence of cases among both children and adults. In Pennsylvania, the state Department of Health reported no cases in 2022, yet last year saw 16 confirmed cases, with six more already in 2023. This alarming trend is attributed to a decline in vaccination rates, as fewer parents are choosing to vaccinate their children against this highly contagious virus.

Currently, cases in Pennsylvania have been reported primarily in Lancaster and Montgomery counties. However, healthcare systems in Schuylkill, Luzerne, and Lackawanna counties are bracing for potential outbreaks. Dr. Stanley Martin, an infectious disease specialist with the Geisinger Health System, remarked, “I think we all anticipate seeing measles in our community.”

A Growing Concern

According to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. witnessed its highest annual count of measles cases in over three decades, with 2,267 cases reported in 2025. As of February 19, 2026, there have been 982 confirmed cases this year alone. The immunity to measles can only be gained through vaccination or contracting the virus, making vaccinations crucial. Health officials recommend that children receive two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, with the first dose given between 12 to 15 months of age and the second between four to six years.

Vaccination rates have declined since 2020, both nationally and in Pennsylvania, largely due to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many families missed routine pediatric appointments during this time. Additionally, the rapid spread of misinformation regarding vaccines has fueled hesitancy. Dr. Martin noted, “The vaccine has made our children safer, and to not use it is a real shame. Too many people are listening to the wrong people, instead of listening to their doctors.”

To effectively maintain herd immunity and curb the spread of measles, at least a 95% vaccination rate is necessary. Currently, Pennsylvania's MMR vaccination rate stands at 94%. While this rate is close to the target, it remains below the optimal level needed to minimize outbreaks. Neil Ruhland, press secretary for the Department of Health, indicated that while Pennsylvania's rate is relatively high compared to other states, the declining rates among younger children highlight a developing issue.

Dr. Jennifer Janco, chair of the pediatrics department at St. Luke’s University Health Network, emphasized the importance of consulting healthcare professionals regarding vaccinations. “I don’t believe that anyone wants to put their child in harm’s way, but I think too many don’t know the risks of them being unvaccinated against a highly contagious disease,” she said. She urged parents to sift through the surrounding noise and seek guidance from health professionals.

In a study conducted by Johns Hopkins University, it was found that the average county-level vaccination rate nationally fell from 93.9% pre-pandemic to 91.3% post-pandemic, marking a decline of nearly 2.67%. However, data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health shows local vaccination rates among children for the 2024-25 school year remain higher: Schuylkill County reports a 95.4% MMR vaccination rate for kindergarten students, while Luzerne County has a rate of 93.9% among kindergarteners and 97.3% for seventh graders. Lackawanna County shows similar results, with 96.7% of kindergarten students vaccinated.

Contagion Risks on the Rise

Dr. Janco recalls her early career experiences during a significant measles outbreak in Philadelphia in the early 1990s that resulted in nearly 1,500 cases and six deaths, predominantly affecting unvaccinated preschool children. The consequences of measles can be severe, leading to permanent disabilities from complications like brain swelling. “Parents should understand how serious measles can be, and the neurologic harm it can cause,” she cautioned.

As warmer weather approaches, increased social interaction at children's sports events, community gatherings, and family functions raises the risk for contagious diseases, including measles. Dr. Tibisay Villalobos, chief of the pediatrics department at Jefferson Health – Lehigh Valley Region, noted that local healthcare systems are preparing for potential cases. Hospitals have developed protocols for safely testing and isolating suspected measles patients to prevent further spread.

Historically, most measles cases in the U.S. stemmed from unvaccinated individuals traveling to countries where the virus was endemic. However, as national cases rise, the opportunities for the virus to infect unvaccinated individuals increase. The Pennsylvania Department of Health is collaborating with healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations to promote accurate information about vaccinations and encourage immunization.

“Please get your children vaccinated,” Dr. Martin urged. “It’s not just about protecting them; it’s about protecting the community.” As measles cases continue to increase, maintaining vigilance and ensuring vaccination can significantly mitigate the risk of a larger outbreak.