Pennsylvania woman dies from measles complications

The Jefferson County, Pa., Coroner’s Office on Sunday said a 40-year-old woman died from complications with measles, the state’s third measles-related death this year.

Coroner Greg Furlong wrote on Facebook that the woman, a Jefferson County resident, died on Saturday. He added that his office was working with the Pennsylvania Department of Health on this case.

“This is a heartbreaking loss for the family and an unfortunate reminder that measles can be a serious and potentially life-threatening disease,” Furlong wrote. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time. We ask that the public and media respect their privacy as they mourn the loss of their loved one.”

The Hill has reached out to the Pennsylvania Department of Health for comment.

The department told NBC News that it was aware of the woman’s death and that it was “conducting a thorough review of this case and will provide the public with updated information when it becomes available.”

Jefferson County Chief Deputy Coroner and public relations officer Jason Stiver emphasized that the public remain aware of the disease and follow guidance from health officials.

“While cases of severe illness remain uncommon, this tragedy highlights that measles should not be taken lightly,” Stiver said in Furlong’s statement. “Public health measures, early recognition of symptoms, and consultation with healthcare providers are important tools in protecting our community.”

Measles symptoms typically begin 7-14 days after infection, beginning with fever, a cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes, along with a red rash, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) .

The disease is dangerous to babies and young children and can cause severe complications, including pneumonia and swelling of the brain.

Pennsylvania health officials earlier this month reported the “measles-related” deaths of two unvaccinated people in Lancaster County, including an infant, as the state grapples with an outbreak that has sickened 676 people and hospitalized 124 as of Friday, department officials stated . The two deaths marked the first measles-related deaths in the state in 35 years and the first in the U.S. this year.

The CDC disputed the two deaths and excluded them from its official weekly tally of deaths. The deaths were not included on the CDC’s website. An asterisk on the agency’s website stated that they will not be included “while CDC reviews 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,” the message stated. “CDC will update the national count as additional information becomes available.”

CDC Director Erica Schwartz has made no public appearances or remarks amid the outbreak. Any information coming out of the agency has been from social media and overtly political.