LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. – State health officials are warning the public after several cases of measles were identified in Lancaster County.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed five cases of measles in Lancaster County.
Additionally, DOH also confirmed one measles case in Montgomery County associated with an out-of-state resident.
DOH is working with impacted locations, including the Cocalico School District and the Lancaster Academy for the Performing Arts, to conduct contact tracing and provide necessary public health guidance as needed.
Officials say all identified measles cases occurred among unvaccinated residents. During contact tracing, the Department of Health says it does not inquire about religious affiliation.
To keep health providers informed, DOH recently issued a health alert message outlining the signs and symptoms of measles and reminding patients of the importance of being up to date on measles vaccination.
DOH officials say getting the measles vaccine is the best way to protect against it. Guidelines state children should receive two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, starting with the first dose at 12 to 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 through 6 years of age.
The measles vaccine is highly effective at preventing measles. Public health data shows that people who receive two doses of the vaccine see a 97% effective rate.