Pennsylvania measles outbreak becomes largest in 30+ years as states declare emergencies
Pennsylvania has surpassed 1,000 measles cases in 2026, the largest outbreak in more than three decades, while New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a statewide disaster emergency as cases surge in underimmunized rural communities.
Major outbreak across the Northeast
Pennsylvania has recorded over 1,000 measles cases in 2026, marking the largest single-state outbreak in more than 30 years. The state has documented 198 hospitalizations and six deaths. Just across the border, New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a statewide disaster emergency on October 6, with the state recording 108 cases this year—92 of which occurred since mid-July across 18 rural counties with low vaccination rates.
Nationwide, the U.S. has reported more than 3,800 measles cases in 2026, the worst year since 1991. This marks a dramatic resurgence after 26 years without sustained domestic transmission following the disease's official elimination in 2000.
What changed and what it means
Both states have expanded who can administer measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccines. New York's emergency order now allows registered nurses, paramedics, and midwives to give shots in addition to physicians. Vaccination rates have dropped below the 95% threshold needed to prevent outbreaks, primarily in rural and underimmunized communities where parental waivers, healthcare access issues, and vaccine misinformation have reduced coverage.
If you are a newcomer to the Northeast or plan to settle in Pennsylvania or New York, ensure you and any children have complete MMR vaccination records. If exposed to measles, getting vaccinated within three days of contact can prevent infection. Contact your local health department or clinic to verify vaccination status; measles is one of the most contagious human diseases.
Sources
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