CDC questions Pennsylvania's 2 measles deaths
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Photo: Megan Varner/Bloomberg via Getty
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is challenging two measles deaths reported by Pennsylvania late last month.
Why it matters: It's a highly unusual move and comes after Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. accused Gov. Josh Shapiro of fabricating that measles was the reasons for the deaths.
State of play: The CDC's website tracking the ongoing U.S. measles outbreak did not include Pennsylvania's two measles-associated deaths, as of Tuesday.
- The agency's website notes that it's reviewing "additional information regarding the circumstances and causes of death."
- "At this time, available information does not establish whether measles caused or contributed to the deaths or whether the individuals died from other causes while infected with measles," per the agency's website.
The other side: Pennsylvania's Department of Health tells the New York Times that it has provided all the required epidemiological data to the CDC.
- Plus: The state health department says all reported cases are reviewed to confirm they meet the CDC's definition for measles.
- The CDC has historically relied on state and local health departments for this sort of data.
Catch up quick: Pennsylvania officials revealed on Aug. 25 that two unvaccinated people died from measles in Lancaster County — the first such deaths in the state in 35 years.
- The state is also facing a growing measles outbreak, which has infected at least 497 people as of Monday.
Zoom in: One of those deaths was of a newborn, who became sick with measles a few weeks ago and was later pronounced dead shortly after delivery, per The Atlantic.
- The family and midwife assumed measles contributed to the newborn's death.
- Yes, but: The Lancaster County coroner said a ruptured spleen caused the death and he didn't believe measles was related, although the investigation is ongoing, according to the outlet.
- Details surrounding the second case are unclear, other than that the person did test positive for the measles, the Times reports.
A spokesperson for the CDC did not immediately return a request for comment.