Parent briefing: PA measles at 1,286 with congenital alert, raw cheddar recall, early flu notes — 20 October 2026

Parent briefing — 20 October 2026

Pennsylvania measles cases reached 1,286 across 42 counties (up 26 since 16 October), with 247 hospitalizations and five confirmed measles-associated deaths. A CDC Epidemic Intelligence Service officer arrived on site 19 October to assist with nowcast modeling, incidence estimates, and vaccination impact analysis. New pregnancy-related guidance notes increased risks of miscarriage, early labor, and low birth weight; non-immune pregnant people and household members around newborns are urged to consider MMR when eligible.

Family Farmstead Dairy recalled one lot of raw mild cheddar cheese (lot/best-by 7/22/27, 8 oz) after Maryland testing found Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (O26:H11 and O45:H2). Distributed to grocers in NY, PA, NJ, CT, MD, VA, MA (and possibly further). No illnesses reported. Discard or return matching packages. Young children are at higher risk for severe complications including hemolytic uremic syndrome.

Western Washington is seeing an unusually early flu season, with pediatric hospitalizations and positive tests at levels more typical of December. Officials urge vaccination for everyone 6 months and older; protection takes about two weeks. Early West Coast activity may spread eastward.

Household steps

• Check MMR status for all household members who will be around infants too young to vaccinate.

• Discard any Family Farmstead raw mild cheddar matching lot 7/22/27.

• Schedule flu shots now if not already done; infants 6–23 months and high-risk groups are priorities.

• For suspected measles exposure or symptoms (fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, then rash), call your provider or 877-PA-HEALTH rather than walking in.

Sources: Pennsylvania Department of Health 19 October update; FDA Family Farmstead recall notice; Washington state and Seattle Children’s reports on early flu activity.