Pennsylvania measles outbreak tops 900 cases as hospitalisations rise

Pennsylvania's measles outbreak has continued to expand, with health department data putting the total at 903 cases on Monday — an increase of 68 infections since Wednesday of last week.

The state is now dealing with its most severe measles resurgence in decades. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, 176 patients have required hospitalisation, up from 164 on September 23.

Lancaster County, which has recorded the highest number of cases, remains the hardest-hit part of the state.

Earlier this month, Pennsylvania reported four measles-related deaths among unvaccinated residents. The fatalities prompted a dispute between Governor Josh Shapiro and US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over how many of the deaths were directly caused by the virus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention subsequently said it was reviewing how it classifies measles-related deaths. Its website now lists one verified measles death, without confirming where it occurred.

Nationally, the US has recorded 3,659 measles cases this year as of September 24, according to CDC data.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause fever, rash and respiratory complications. It is easily prevented with the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, a routine childhood immunisation that offers 97% protection after two doses.