Pennsylvania is preparing for a potential increase in measles cases, with some health officials expressing concern that it’s “only a matter of time” before the outbreak spreads beyond its current center.
Recently, the state reported a tragic fifth measles-related death among 943 confirmed cases spanning 39 counties. This outbreak appears to be happening at a time when public health in the U.S. is facing rising vaccine skepticism, partly fueled by the influence of the controversial health secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr.
Adding to the struggle is the fact that Pennsylvania is one of the few states where most counties lack their own health departments, with only seven out of 67 counties having this service.
Lancaster County, which does not have its own health department, has reported the highest number of cases at 381. Many of these cases are among the Amish community or similar groups, who historically have lower vaccination rates for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). In response, health officials and community members are looking to establish a local health department to better manage the outbreak.
Jeanne Franklin, head of Chester County’s health department, mentioned that her county, which has the third-highest cases at 83, is bracing for more cases from Lancaster. “We share a long border with Lancaster County, and diseases don’t respect borders,” she noted. “We’re preparing for the possibility that the illness might spread to non-Amish members of our community.”
She pointed out that while many in the Amish community have not received vaccinations, it isn’t necessarily due to opposition to vaccines. According to her, it often stems from a lack of awareness or infrequent interactions with the healthcare system.
Franklin also added, “They’re open to discussion and making informed choices based on current events rather than myths.” The county is actively tracking measles cases, implementing contact tracing, and setting up vaccination centers, while also working to clarify vaccine safety concerns in the community.
She remarked, “There are people suggesting this isn’t a real outbreak or that the vaccine can cause sterility or contains a microchip.” However, Franklin believes that Chester County’s existing health department provides a significant advantage in addressing the outbreak.
“Having our own health department means we have systems in place and can prepare throughout the year,” she explained. “Given the number of counties to support, the state can’t be fully aware of all local partners. We know our residents and can mobilize our staff more effectively.”
Dr. Richard Lorraine, the medical director for Montgomery County’s public health office, voiced that it’s only a matter of time before they encounter measles cases as well. “It’s all around us, so our main focus is on immunizations,” he said. “That’s where we believe our efforts should be directed.”
Collaborating with community leaders, Lorraine mentioned that they are ensuring vaccine access for all residents, regardless of insurance status. “We aim to provide care mainly for underinsured populations, which is quite common in our area.”
Lora Werner, the director of the Delaware County health department, described several hurdles in safeguarding residents from the illness, noting the collapse of Crozer Health, which was a major pediatric care provider in the area.
“We do have a decent vaccination rate, but there are certain areas where it lags,” she acknowledged. Werner emphasized that establishing a local health department has significantly improved public health outreach in her county.
“We’re the newest health department around, and we’re eager to serve the community,” she said enthusiastically. However, she mentioned that creating the department had its challenges because Pennsylvania has a unique process where a referendum is needed to establish a health department, although it’s not mandatory.
The Pennsylvania health department has been contacted for comments on the situation.
