Midwives Advocated for MMR Vaccines in Pennsylvania
A midwife in Lancaster County has called for authority to provide MMR vaccines to Amish mothers amid an outbreak.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Babies
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Pennsylvania has recorded more than 1,000 measles cases throughout 2026, prompting calls to expand vaccine access. A Lancaster County midwife is now advocating for state permission to administer MMR vaccines directly to Amish mothers.
Why it matters
Expanding vaccine administration to trusted community figures like midwives could help improve immunization rates, which are essential for achieving herd immunity. This intervention aims to address the ongoing outbreak, which has disproportionately affected unvaccinated individuals.
State surveillance data confirms more than 1,000 measles cases in Pennsylvania during 2026, with Lancaster County reporting 383 cases and Chester County reporting 84. Fewer than 1% of these cases occurred in fully vaccinated individuals.
The players
Lancaster County Midwife
A healthcare provider advocating for policy changes to allow midwives to administer the MMR vaccine within the Amish community.
The details
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The MMR vaccine works by introducing a weakened form of the virus to the body, stimulating the immune system to produce protective antibodies. By increasing vaccine access through trusted midwives, health officials hope to bridge gaps in immunization coverage for populations like the Amish community.
Timeline
2026: Pennsylvania measles outbreak total reached over 1,000 cases.
Health Landscape
The current measles outbreak in Pennsylvania reflects a broader struggle to maintain herd immunity in diverse populations. Efforts to utilize community-trusted providers mark a departure from centralized clinical vaccine delivery models.
If you or your children are unvaccinated, consult your physician to discuss the risks of measles and the protection provided by the MMR vaccine. Those in Lancaster or Chester counties should be particularly vigilant for symptoms and monitor local health department guidance.
The takeaway
The most effective way to prevent measles is through the standard two-dose MMR vaccine series. Speak with your healthcare provider to confirm your vaccination status and discuss any concerns you have regarding vaccine access or community health.
Further reading
For additional context on childhood health and immunization recommendations, visit our Babies section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 6abc Action News.
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