Franklin County Woman Dies from Measles, Sixth State Fatality in 2026

A 39-year-old woman in Franklin County died after contracting measles, according to a statement from the county coroner’s office posted on Facebook. The coroner noted that the woman had several underlying health conditions, including a prior measles diagnosis, and that the case meets the Pennsylvania Department of Health’s definition of a measles-associated death.

The office did not release further personal details, citing privacy concerns and stating that families should be allowed to mourn privately.

"This is the first death in Franklin County in many years with a recent history of measles diagnosis and meets the definition set forth by the Pennsylvania Department of Health for a measles-associated death," the coroner’s statement read.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health has recorded 1,136 measles cases in the state so far in 2026, with 157 reported in the past week, and expects the total to be updated later in the day. Health officials continue to advise the public to follow precautions outlined by the state health department and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus that spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and can remain viable on surfaces for up to two hours. Symptoms typically begin seven to 21 days after exposure and include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that spreads from the head downward. The MMR vaccine provides about 97% lifetime protection after two doses, and adults lacking full vaccination are urged to consult healthcare providers.