PA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH COULD BE WITHDRAWING REQUEST FOR HELP FROM THE CDC REGARDING MEASLES OUTBREAK

The PA Department of Health could be withdrawing its request for help from the CDC regarding the measles outbreak in the state.  WTAE-TV reports that the letter from secretary Dr. Debra Bogen said Pennsylvania has worked closely with CDC professionals throughout the outbreak, holding regular meetings to discuss resources, guidance and outbreak-related issues.The state has now requested assistance through the CDC’s Epidemic Intelligence Service/Epi-Aid program, but the federal department has not acknowledged the four measles-related deaths in the state.  She said the state’s findings were based on sound epidemiological investigations and published guidance. The state could withdraw its request if the deaths are not acknowledged.