CDC Confirms 4,000 Measles Cases As Pennsylvania Emerges Epicenter
The CDC has confirmed more than 4,000 measles cases nationwide in 2026, with Pennsylvania now the epicenter after reporting over 1,100 cases and at least five measles-related deaths.[1]
Nearly a fifth of confirmed cases involve children under age 5, and more than 90 percent of cases have occurred in unvaccinated people.[1] A Hershey, Pennsylvania pediatric infectious disease doctor says children are being hospitalized with encephalitis, severe pneumonia and, in some cases, the need for ventilators.[1]
CDC says this is the largest measles outbreak in 35 years.[1] Public health officials link the surge to pockets of low vaccination that allowed the virus to spread quickly once introduced into communities.
Local doctors and health officials are urging immediate vaccination and expanded outreach to protect infants and other vulnerable people.[1]
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📌 Key Facts
- CDC has confirmed more than 4,000 measles cases in the U.S. in 2026, the largest outbreak in 35 years
- Nearly a fifth of confirmed cases involve children under age 5 and more than 90 percent are among unvaccinated people
- Pennsylvania is the current epicenter with over 1,100 cases, five confirmed measles-related deaths, and a possible sixth under investigation
- A Hershey, Pennsylvania pediatric infectious disease doctor reports children with measles are being hospitalized with encephalitis, severe pneumonia, and in some cases need for ventilators
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