Pennsylvania Issues Alert Amid Spike in Congenital Measles Cases

On Monday, the Pennsylvania Department of Health issued an alert to physicians regarding a concerning increase in congenital measles and measles infections among pregnant women, issues rarely seen in the United States in recent decades. The surge comes amid a broader measles outbreak in the state that began in April.

Measles Infections Among Pregnant Women

According to health officials, 66 pregnant women in Pennsylvania have been diagnosed with measles since the current outbreak started. The department warned that measles infection during pregnancy can elevate the risk of miscarriage, early labor, and low birth weight. However, the department did not disclose how many of these cases have resulted in miscarriage or congenital measles due to state confidentiality laws and the lack of a national tracking database for such outcomes. The true number of affected women and infants may be underestimated, as the outbreak has been primarily confined to Amish communities, which may not seek traditional medical care.

Congenital Measles: Rare But Rising

Congenital measles refers to measles infection in newborns, typically when mothers contract the disease within two weeks prior to delivery. This condition is exceptionally rare in the U.S., especially since the widespread adoption of measles vaccination. Nonetheless, as vaccination rates have declined, the number of congenital cases is increasing.

The CDC reports 4,410 measles cases nationwide in 2026, with 1,286 of those in Pennsylvania as of Monday. The American Academy of Pediatrics responded to the trend by publishing a "frequently asked questions" resource on congenital measles.

Symptoms and Complications in Newborns

At least six babies are known to have been born with congenital measles in Pennsylvania, suffering symptoms from rash and fever to pneumonia and low blood platelets. Two infants developed pneumonia serious enough to require intensive care. Tragically, one family in Lancaster County lost a newborn after the mother contracted measles and went into early labor, according to a report shared with NBC News.

Beyond the immediate consequences, congenital measles can lead to severe long-term complications, including neurological damage and immune system problems. Notably, it may predispose children to subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a rare and fatal brain inflammation that can arise seven to ten years after measles infection—and possibly earlier in those born with congenital measles.

Treatment and Prevention Strategies

Currently, there is no specific treatment for congenital measles other than supportive care, which may include fluids, adequate hydration, and supplemental oxygen. The Pennsylvania Department of Health emphasizes measles prevention as the best strategy, strongly recommending that women receive the measles vaccine before becoming pregnant. The measles vaccination contains a live but weakened virus and is not safe for pregnant women.

For unvaccinated pregnant women exposed to measles, the health department advises that a dose of immunoglobulin treatment administered within six days of exposure can help protect against infection or reduce the risk of severe illness. After giving birth, women can safely receive the vaccine while breastfeeding.

Wider Implications of the Outbreak

The rise in measles outbreak cases and associated pregnancy risks highlight the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates. Even before the development of the measles vaccine, congenital measles was uncommon because most women had acquired immunity as children. The recent spike, especially within underserved or undervaccinated communities, underscores the ongoing need for vigilance and public health education on measles symptoms, transmission, and prevention strategies.

Source: nbcnews.com.