Pennsylvania measles deaths spark political feud

Pennsylvania reported its first measles-related deaths in decades, with two unvaccinated residents dying after measles infection. Governor Josh Shapiro emphasized that vaccinations could have prevented the deaths. However, U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. publicly disputed the announcement, suggesting the deaths 'may even have been altogether fabricated.' This sparked a feud between Shapiro and Kennedy, drawing criticism from medical experts who say the political dispute distracts from the public health threat. The U.S. has seen a surge in measles cases, the worst in over three decades, with vaccination rates falling below the 95% threshold needed to prevent outbreaks. The United States — Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Coroner, Stephen Diamantoni, stated that one death, a newborn baby, did not die as a result of measles, attributing the cause to a spleen tear. The United States — Pennsylvania Department of Health stands by its announcement, while the CDC has delayed updating national measles data. Experts worry about unreported infections and the potential for further spread as schools reopen.