Pennsylvania Reports Sixth Measles-Associated Death

A 39-year-old woman in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, has become the state’s sixth reported measles-associated death this year, according to the Franklin County Coroner’s Office. The office said she had underlying health conditions and a recent history of measles, and that her death met the state’s definition for a measles-associated death. It withheld further details, citing privacy concerns. The woman died Saturday, and the coroner’s office said the death was investigated that day. The Pennsylvania Department of Health said it was reviewing the report and would update the public after its investigation. The department’s definition requires symptoms within 30 days of infection, clinical evidence, a positive measles test and no unrelated cause. The supplied information does not say whether the state’s review has been completed. The state has reported six measles-associated deaths, while the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists two measles deaths nationally. The CDC says its tally may change as additional information becomes available and reviews are completed.