Two cases of measles have been confirmed in Erie County, Western Pennsylvania. Officials from the county's health department cite international travel as a probable link to the new cases. Health authorities maintain a low risk of further community spread. Still, as reported by WPXI, they are actively working to reach out to individuals who may have had contact with the infected persons. They also emphasized the importance of vaccination to help curb the potential spread of infection.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recorded 378 confirmed cases of measles across the United States in 2025, with 90% being linked to three outbreaks in states including Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York, and Maryland, according to Pennlive. The highly contagious disease has led to one death this year and can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person coughs or sneezes. It aims at those who are most vulnerable: children under five, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

While there haven't been any reported cases in the Pittsburgh area, Allegheny County has seen a rise in measles cases since 2016, with a peak in 2019, says CBS News Pittsburgh. Former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams described the increase in outbreaks as a byproduct of diminished community immunity. "If we see that community immunity erode, we are seeing an increase in outbreaks," he said.

Adults born between 1963 and 1967 may have received a less effective vaccine, so it's recommended to talk to a healthcare provider to check their immunity. Healthcare workers, university students, and international travelers need two vaccine doses for full protection. According to health department guidelines, all measles cases, whether confirmed or suspected, are reported to county health departments for proper isolation and containment.