Pennsylvania health officials are reporting nearly 500 confirmed measles cases across the state this year as an ongoing outbreak continues to affect dozens of counties, including Berks County.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health announced Tuesday that 497 measles cases have been confirmed across 34 counties so far in 2026. As of Aug. 31, Berks County had reported four confirmed cases.
Statewide, 37 new cases have been reported since Aug. 28. Health officials said 87 people have been hospitalized and two measles-associated deaths have been reported during the outbreak.
The Department of Health said daily case numbers may fluctuate, but tracking cases, hospitalizations and deaths helps health officials monitor community transmission and guide the state’s response.
Health officials continue to encourage residents to make sure they are fully vaccinated against measles. The measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, commonly known as the MMR vaccine, is administered in a two-dose series and is 97% effective at preventing measles after two doses, according to the department.
The vaccine is available through health care providers, county or municipal health departments, Department of Health State Health Centers, Federally Qualified Health Centers and providers participating in the Vaccines for Children program.
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can cause complications including pneumonia and brain swelling. The Department of Health said nearly 20% of people who contract measles are hospitalized, while death occurs in approximately one to three patients per 1,000 cases.
The virus spreads when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes and can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
Initial symptoms typically include fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes, followed by a rash that begins on the head and spreads downward. Symptoms can develop seven to 21 days after exposure.
Anyone who believes they were exposed to measles and is experiencing symptoms should contact their health care provider or call the Pennsylvania Department of Health at 877-PA-HEALTH (877-724-3258).
The state maintains an online measles dashboard with updated information about confirmed cases, affected counties, hospitalizations, deaths, community transmission and vaccination efforts.