Pennsylvania health officials issued measles guidance for clinicians treating pregnant patients and newborns as the outbreak reached 42 counties and raised concerns about complications for mothers and babies.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health reported 1,286 cases, 247 hospitalizations and five measles-associated deaths as of Oct. 19. The federal measles death count reached three on Oct. 20.
The department said measles during pregnancy raises the risk of miscarriage, early labor and low birth weight. Its health advisory said congenital measles had been identified for the first time in decades.
The department said the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine should not be given during pregnancy. It said pregnant women without immunity and exposed babies can receive immunoglobulin within six days of exposure.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) listed 4,410 confirmed cases nationwide as of Oct. 15. Pennsylvania instructed clinicians to report suspected measles in pregnant patients or newborns immediately.
A CDC Epidemic Intelligence Service officer joined Pennsylvania's response on Oct. 19 to help model the outbreak and analyze the impact of vaccination efforts, the state health department said. The CDC's weekly case data reflect reports received by noon Thursday.
