Possible Measles Exposure Reported at Lancaster County Schools

Cocalico School District notifies staff and families after being contacted by Pennsylvania Department of Health.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 5:47pm

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The Pennsylvania Department of Health has reported a possible measles exposure at two buildings in the Cocalico School District in Lancaster County. The school district has complied with the Department of Health's procedures and notified the appropriate staff and families. There have been five confirmed cases of measles in Lancaster County, all involving unvaccinated individuals.

Why it matters

Measles is a highly contagious illness that can spread quickly, especially in school settings where large numbers of unvaccinated individuals may be present. This potential exposure raises concerns about the ongoing measles outbreak in the region and the importance of vaccination to protect public health.

The details

According to Cocalico School District Director of Communications Allison Ohline, the district was contacted by the Pennsylvania Department of Health regarding the possible measles exposure at two of their school buildings. The district has followed the Department of Health's protocols, and the appropriate staff and families have been notified. A Department of Health spokesperson confirmed that there have been five cases of measles confirmed in Lancaster County, all involving individuals who were not vaccinated.

  • On February 4, 2026, the Cocalico School District was notified by the Pennsylvania Department of Health about the possible measles exposure.

The players

Cocalico School District

A school district in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania that was notified of a possible measles exposure at two of its buildings.

Pennsylvania Department of Health

The state health department that contacted the Cocalico School District about the possible measles exposure and has confirmed five cases of measles in Lancaster County.

Allison Ohline

The Director of Communications for the Cocalico School District who released a statement about the district's response to the possible measles exposure.

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What they’re saying

“We were contacted by the PA Department of Health (DOH) regarding possible measles exposure at two of our buildings. We have complied with DOH procedures, and the appropriate staff and families were notified.”

— Allison Ohline, Director of Communications, Cocalico School District (abc27.com)

What’s next

The Pennsylvania Department of Health is continuing to investigate the possible measles exposure and monitor the situation in Lancaster County. The Cocalico School District will continue to work with health officials and follow their guidance to ensure the safety of students and staff.

The takeaway

This potential measles exposure highlights the importance of vaccination, especially in school settings, to prevent the spread of highly contagious illnesses. It also underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and cooperation between public health authorities and local school districts to address emerging health threats in the community.