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Franklin County reports possible measles-associated death as state reviews case

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Pennsylvania health officials are reviewing a Franklin County coroner’s report that a 39-year-old woman died after a measles diagnosis, according to reporting published October 12 by the Pennsylvania Capital-Star.

The coroner’s office said the woman was unvaccinated and had several underlying conditions. It described her primary cause of death as a probable cardiac event potentially connected to measles complications.

The Department of Health had not confirmed the classification in the Capital-Star’s report. A spokesperson said the department was “conducting a thorough review of the reported death.”

If confirmed, the case would become Pennsylvania’s sixth measles-associated death this year. The distinction matters: the coroner’s announcement is a reported finding, while the state’s investigation remains a separate step.

The Capital-Star reported more than 1,130 Pennsylvania cases, with about one in five requiring hospitalization. Those figures describe the statewide outbreak, rather than the number of infections in Franklin or Adams counties.

The Department of Health warns that measles spreads through the air and can linger in an airspace for up to two hours after an infected person leaves. Complications can include pneumonia and brain inflammation.

Symptoms commonly include fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, and a rash. The department advises people experiencing symptoms to speak with their health care provider.

State officials identify vaccination as the best protection. MMR vaccine is available through medical practices, pharmacies and health centers; residents can consult their provider about vaccination records and eligibility.

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