Lancaster, PA – September 16, 2026
Re: Important Measles Information from the Delaware County Health Department
Dear WPSD Families,
We are sharing an important health update from the Delaware County Health Department regarding an active measles outbreak in Delaware County and neighboring counties.
At this time, there is no action required by families. We are sharing this information so that families are aware and can review their child’s measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination status with their healthcare provider.
What families should know:
Measles is highly contagious and can cause serious illness. Symptoms typically begin 7–14 days after exposure and may include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red or watery eyes
- A rash that typically begins on the head and spreads down the body
The best way to prevent measles is vaccination. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are approximately 97% effective at preventing measles.
If your child develops symptoms consistent with measles, please keep your child home and contact your healthcare provider before going to a medical office or hospital. This allows the provider to give you guidance and take precautions to prevent exposing others.
If a confirmed measles exposure occurs at a school or school-sponsored activity, the Delaware County Health Department may determine that individuals who cannot provide proof of immunity need to remain out of school or school activities for up to 21 days following exposure. Any exclusion determination would be made by the Health Department based on the circumstances of the specific exposure.
For questions about measles, vaccination, or potential exposure, families may contact their healthcare provider or the Delaware County Health Department Wellness Line:
Delaware County Health Department Wellness Line
Phone: (484) 276-2100 — available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Email: DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us
Additional measles information is available through the Pennsylvania Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Thank you for helping us maintain healthy and safe learning environments for all students and families.
