Pennsylvania measles cases this year have led to 98 hospitalizations and two deaths, prompting a surge in vaccinations statewide.

Kennedy has for years promoted the idea that vaccines are ⁠more dangerous than the diseases they prevent, despite decades of scientific evidence that they save lives. The combined measles, mumps and rubella shot routinely given to U.S. children has been shown to provide 97% protection against infection.

Public health workers are relying on word-of-mouth immunization clinics to fight the state’s growing outbreak.

Measles is highly contagious and can cause pneumonia, brain swelling, long-term complications, and, in rare cases, death. Nearly 20% of people with measles are hospitalized; about 1 to 3 per 1,000 cases result in death.

Pennsylvania health officials are warning that visitors to a turnpike service plaza last month might have been exposed to measles. The Pennsylvania Department of Health said a person who does not live in the state tested positive for measles after stopping at the New Stanton service plaza on the westbound turnpike in Westmoreland County on Aug.

Lancaster County commissioners are facing renewed calls to create a county health department as the area remains at the center of Pennsylvania's measles outbreak.

What’s happening with measles in Pennsylvania? There is currently a disagreement between local health officials and the feds over whether there are one, two, or no measles deaths in the ongoing outbreak there.

Pennsylvania Department of Health records show whether children have been vaccinated for measles at benchmark ages of kindergarten, seventh grade and twelfth grade.