Measles deaths unreported by CDC
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The gist
CDC withheld two Pennsylvania measles deaths from its count pending review. The dispute pits federal health officials against state leaders amid measles outbreak.
Background
Two unvaccinated people in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, died of measles, the first U.S. fatalities this year. The state reported the deaths on August 25, but the CDC has not included them in its national count while it reviews whether measles caused or contributed to the deaths. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. suggested the deaths may have been fabricated, sparking a war of words with Governor Josh Shapiro.
How it unfolded
- Aug 25, 2026Pennsylvania Department of Health reports two measles-associated deaths, including an infant, in Lancaster County.
- Aug 27, 2026Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. posts on X that the deaths may have been 'altogether fabricated,' prompting criticism.
- Aug 28, 2026Governor Josh Shapiro and Secretary Kennedy engage in a public war of words over the deaths.
- Sep 1, 2026CDC says it is reviewing the cases and has not confirmed measles caused the deaths; Pennsylvania doctors criticize the administration.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- CDC says available information does not establish whether measles caused or contributed to the deaths, and it will update the count as more information becomes available.
- Public
- Pennsylvania doctors express loss of trust in the CDC, saying the agency has been 'thoroughly remade' in RFK Jr.'s image.
- Expert
- Some medical experts criticize Governor Shapiro for politicizing the tragedy and lack of transparency, which they say gives Kennedy an opening to spread misinformation.
Still unverified
Kennedy's suggestion that the deaths may have been fabricated is unsubstantiated; the CDC has not confirmed the cause of death.