3 articles · Updated · The Associated Press · Aug 29
Summary
Two unvaccinated Pennsylvania residents were reported dead after measles infection, but the announcement has turned into a public clash over whether measles caused or merely accompanied the fatalities.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the deaths may have been fabricated, while Gov. Josh Shapiro said vaccination could have prevented them, shifting attention from the outbreak to a political fight.
Lancaster County Coroner Stephen Diamantoni said one case—a newborn who died Aug. 14—showed measles infection in lung tissue but was attributed to a spleen tear, not the virus; the second death remains undisclosed and under review.
Pennsylvania's health department said it stands by labeling the deaths measles-related if the person had measles and died, while the CDC delayed its latest national measles update without explanation.
With vaccination coverage below the 95% threshold and Lancaster County reporting about 400 cases, experts warn the dispute is obscuring a broader surge that could worsen as schools reopen.