Pennsylvania recently reported two measles-associated deaths, sparking a public debate about the underlying causes. Both individuals were unvaccinated, marking the first such deaths in the state in 35 years.
Investigation into Newborn’s Death
The Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) confirmed that one of the deaths occurred in a newborn from Lancaster County. The county coroner, Stephen Diamantoni, stated the baby died shortly after birth from a lacerated spleen but tested positive for measles contracted before birth.
Diamantoni’s office continues to investigate the death, while the DOH clarified that not all deaths are investigated by a coroner. The term “measles-associated” is used when laboratory evidence of measles exists, even if it is not identified as the direct cause of death.
Concerns and Criticisms
Dr. Marc Siegel from Fox News explained that measles can enlarge and, in rare cases, rupture the spleen. Pregnant women and newborns face higher risks of severe complications from measles. Infants too young for the MMR vaccine are particularly vulnerable.
Former CDC advisor Robert F. Kennedy Jr. questioned whether state officials provided enough information to substantiate the deaths. He alleged potential misinformation and claimed the Lancaster County Coroner had no record of measles deaths.
Official Response
Governor Josh Shapiro emphasized the dangers of misinformation about the measles vaccine, while the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed efforts to clarify the situation. The CDC highlighted discrepancies in the reported details and offered assistance that was declined by state officials.
Pennsylvania Health Secretary Dr. Debra Bogen disputed the CDC’s claims, asserting both deaths were reported to the CDC’s measles response team. She confirmed that state epidemiologists investigated the cases, verifying the presence of measles in both individuals.
Understanding ‘Measles-Associated’ Deaths
Dr. Siegel explained that measles weakens the immune system, increasing pneumonia risk either from measles or secondary infections. When other immediate causes of death coexist with measles, determining the virus’s role becomes complex.
He noted that a measles-associated death could occur from the virus’s impact on the immune system or stress on major organs.
Current Measles Outbreak
Lancaster County remains the center of Pennsylvania’s measles outbreak with 424 confirmed cases and 73 hospitalizations, as per the latest data.
Government officials involved have been contacted for comments but have yet to respond.
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