After Pennsylvania reported its first measles deaths in 35 years, a political dispute erupted between Governor Josh Shapiro and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over the cause of death. Shapiro accused Kennedy of spreading misinformation, while Kennedy suggested the deaths might have been fabricated.

The disagreement centers on a newborn who tested positive for measles but died from a lacerated spleen, according to the county coroner. Health officials clarified that measles can weaken the body, making other complications fatal, even if the virus isn't the immediate cause. The CDC delayed its weekly update amid the controversy, and experts like Dr. Paul Offit emphasized that measles-associated deaths are real and often involve secondary infections or organ damage.