Lancaster County coroner urges vaccinations after third measles-linked death
The county coroner warned that measles cases could rise in colder months and urged residents to be fully vaccinated following a third measles-associated fatality reported by the state health department.
Lancaster County Coroner Stephen Diamantoni urged residents to complete measles vaccinations after the Pennsylvania Department of Health reported a third death linked to the disease. He said the colder season could increase transmission as people spend more time indoors.
"I would guess the number of total cases will increase," Diamantoni said, noting that close proximity in closed spaces facilitates the spread of the highly infectious virus.
The coroner questioned the health department’s use of the term “measles-associated,” asking whether the death was directly caused by measles or involved other factors. He said the department declined to provide further details and noted that it is not required to report such deaths to the coroner.
State health officials reiterated the effectiveness of the vaccine, stating that a single dose provides about 93% protection and two doses raise efficacy to roughly 97%. The coroner added that full vaccination also helps guard against other respiratory illnesses common in winter.