Measles symptoms to watch for as outbreaks continue
Measles surge across the U.S. as vaccination rates fall. In Florida, there have been 158 cases in 2026. Here are symptoms you should watch for.
A Pennsylvania woman died from complications associated with measles, marking the state’s third measles-related death in 2026 as the United States faces the largest resurgence of the contagious infection in 35 years.
The woman, a 40-year-old Jefferson County resident, died on Sept. 12, according to a statement from the county coroner’s office.
“This is a heartbreaking loss for the family and an unfortunate reminder that measles can be a serious and potentially life-threatening disease,” said Jefferson County Coroner Greg Furlong.
The coroner’s office is working with Pennsylvania’s Department of Health on the case, but no additional information about the woman will be released out of respect for her and her family’s privacy, the statement said.
Jason Stiver, Jefferson County’s chief deputy coroner and public relations officer, added the death should serve as a reminder that measles can lead to severe complications for people of any age, despite many thinking of it as a childhood illness.
“While cases of severe illness remain uncommon, this tragedy highlights that measles should not be taken lightly,” Stiver said in the statement. “Public health measures, early recognition of symptoms, and consultation with healthcare providers are important tools in protecting our community.”
The announcement comes just a few days after another Pennsylvania coroner confirmed Sept. 9 that the state’s two measles-related deaths in August both involved infants. Neither was old enough to be vaccinated, as the first dose is typically administered around 12 to 15 months of age.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health said on Sept. 11 that 676 measles cases have been confirmed in 37 counties across the state this year, leading to 124 hospitalizations. Of those with confirmed cases, state officials said four — less than 1% — were fully vaccinated.
Several states are experiencing measles outbreaks this year. As of Sept. 13, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said 3,387 cases have been reported so far in 2026, up from the 2,286 reported in 2025.
In 2026, most have been in Pennsylvania and South Carolina, where 676 and 671 cases were reported, respectively. Utah is not far behind, with 518 reported cases in 2026.
More than 100 reported cases have also popped up in Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin, Florida, Ohio, and Arizona, the CDC said.
Contributing: Sara Moniuszko, USA TODAY