Measles in Pennsylvania: 1,338 cases across 44 counties and alert over 60+ infected pregnant women

Philadelphia — The Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed 1,338 measles cases across 44 counties as of October 23, 2026, and the rise in cases among pregnant women — more than 60 reports — prompted a health alert with new recommendations to protect mothers and newborns.

The official October 23 tally records 52 more cases than the October 19 report, when the state counted 1,286 infections in 42 counties. The health alert for medical professionals, issued October 19, includes recommendations for treating pregnant patients with measles and newborns with a possible congenital infection, which occurs when the mother transmits the virus to the baby before or around birth.

Authorities stress a key clarification: pregnant women should not receive the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. Vaccination should happen before pregnancy and after delivery. Those planning to become pregnant should avoid pregnancy for 28 days after a dose.

In Philadelphia, uninsured residents can get the MMR vaccine free at five municipal health centers, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with no appointment or insurance needed: Health Center 3 (555 S. 43rd St.), Health Center 4 (4400 Haverford Ave.), Health Center 5 Annex (2001 W. Berks St.), Mattie L. Humphrey (131 E. Chelten Ave.), and Strawberry Mansion (2840 W. Dauphin St.).

The CDC is closely monitoring the outbreak and supporting the state response, and the state offers guidance through 877-724-3258. Measles during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth weight.

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Source: ClaroSports