Measles Outbreak Warning for Pregnant Women in Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania Department of Health issued a health warning on Monday regarding the increasing cases of measles during pregnancy and congenital measles in the state. The department emphasized that prior to the current outbreak, cases of congenital measles had not been seen for decades.

The advisory provides detailed clinical guidance for managing measles exposure and cases in pregnancy and newborns. Due to declining vaccination rates across the country, the highly contagious virus is gaining a foothold and spreading rapidly in undervaccinated areas, including Pennsylvania.

As of Oct. 19, Pennsylvania has reported 1,286 measles cases in 42 counties this year, with 247 hospitalizations and six deaths. Notably, 53 cases of measles occurred in pregnant individuals, leading to severe outcomes, including the first reported death of a newborn baby whose mother was critically ill with the virus.

Risks for Pregnant Women

Unvaccinated pregnant individuals are at higher risk for severe complications if they contract measles, including hospitalization, pneumonia, and even death. Measles during pregnancy can also increase the chances of miscarriage, stillbirth, low birth weight, and premature birth. While the MMR vaccine is not recommended during pregnancy, exposed individuals should receive intravenous immune globulin within 6 days to prevent infection.

For further information, refer to the full article by The 19th.