Why the CDC is excluding measles deaths in Pennsylvania even as outbreak appears to be ‘accelerating’
Summary
The CDC is not yet counting four reported measles deaths in Pennsylvania while the outbreak there is growing and showing unusual patterns. Lawmakers have asked for an explanation as measles cases rise sharply across the U.S., reaching levels not seen in many years.Key Facts
- The CDC updated its measles dashboard but excluded four measles deaths in Pennsylvania.
- Pennsylvania has reported 731 confirmed measles cases, but the actual number could be higher.
- A possible measles exposure occurred in a neonatal intensive care unit in Philadelphia.
- Measles cases include congenital measles, where babies catch the virus before or at birth, which is rare.
- Measles deaths generally occur at a rate of 1 to 3 per 1,000 cases; about 20% of patients may be hospitalized.
- CDC is working with state epidemiologists to create a clear definition of measles deaths for accurate counting.
- Death certificates are issued by states, and the CDC relies on this data but has not adopted a specific definition for measles deaths yet.
- Lawmakers requested an immediate briefing on the CDC’s decision to change how it reports measles deaths.
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