Pennsylvania has reported its sixth measles-associated death after a 39-year-old woman in Franklin County, Pennsylvania died following a previous measles diagnosis, officials said.
The Franklin County Coroner’s Office announced the death on Monday. The woman had several underlying health conditions, and the office investigated her death on Saturday. She had previously been diagnosed with measles and received treatment.
Officials said the case meets the Pennsylvania Department of Health’s definition of a measles-associated death. The woman’s identity and further details about her medical history were not released. The coroner’s office said it would not disclose information that could identify her or her family out of respect for their privacy.
The death comes as Pennsylvania continues to report measles cases across the state. In its latest update, the Pennsylvania Department of Health reported 1,078 confirmed cases across 41 counties, along with 207 hospitalizations and five measles-associated deaths. The Franklin County case brings the reported death toll to six.
Measles cases have also continued to rise nationwide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 4,080 confirmed cases had been reported in the United States as of Oct. 8, across 47 jurisdictions. Another 18 cases were reported among international visitors.
The CDC also reported 42 new outbreaks in 2026. Overall, 96% of confirmed cases were associated with outbreaks that began in either 2025 or 2026.
Measles is highly contagious and can cause serious complications, including pneumonia and inflammation of the brain. The virus spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. It can remain infectious in the air for up to 2 hours after an infected person leaves an area, according to public health guidance.
Health officials recommend vaccination as the best protection against measles. Two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing the disease, according to the CDC.
The Franklin County Coroner’s Office urged health care workers, first responders and the public to follow guidance from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the CDC. Officials have not released further details about the woman’s death.