Lancaster County reports 5 more measles cases; 17 total this year

May 27, 2026 - 02:52

Lancaster County continues to see the highest number of measles infections in Pennsylvania, with five new cases confirmed today by the state Department of Health. That brings the county's total to 17 cases so far this year, making it the epicenter of the outbreak in the commonwealth.

Health officials say the new cases are linked to ongoing community transmission, primarily among unvaccinated individuals. The department has not released specific locations where exposures may have occurred, but it is urging residents to check their vaccination records and watch for symptoms.

Measles is highly contagious and can spread through coughing and sneezing. Symptoms typically include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by a rash that spreads from the head to the rest of the body. Complications can be severe, especially in young children and pregnant women.

The state health department is coordinating with local clinics to offer free MMR vaccines to those who need them. Officials emphasize that the best protection is two doses of the vaccine, which is about 97 percent effective.

This year's total of 17 cases in Lancaster County already surpasses the number of cases reported in the entire state in some recent years. Public health experts are closely monitoring the situation and expect more cases if vaccination rates do not improve.