Sep 16, 2026 - News

McCormick backs MMR vaccine as measles deaths rise

Ryan Deto

Photo illustration of Dave McCormick with lines radiating from him. — U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick. Photo illustration: Axios Visuals; Photo: Allison Robbert/AFP via Getty Images

Republican U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick reiterated his support for the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine after two more deaths in Pennsylvania were associated with measles.

Why it matters: His support comes as Gov. Shapiro and U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. continue to trade jabs over the measles-associated deaths.

What they're saying: "Measles is preventable. The MMR vaccine has been used safely and effectively for decades and helped eliminate measles from the United States before most parents today were even born. My condolences are with the four families grieving unimaginable losses. I'm keeping them, and everyone affected by this outbreak, in my prayers," McCormick posted Tuesday on X.

Context: The Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed two more measles-associated deaths — one in Mifflin County and the other in Jefferson County — on Tuesday.

Last month, two measles-associated deaths, including one infant, were announced in Lancaster County.

The bottom line: Pennsylvania is facing its worst measles outbreak in several decades, state health secretary Debra Bogen said.

There are 731 cases reported in the state, as of Wednesday.

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McCormick backs MMR vaccine as measles deaths rise

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