New York health officials on Monday reported the first measles-associated death in the state in more than 30 years.
A child has died in a rural county in northern New York.
“We are deeply saddened by the death of a child in Lewis County associated with the ongoing measles outbreak. We extend our deepest condolences to the child’s family and loved ones and ask that their privacy be respected during this difficult time,” state health officials said in a statement.
The statement did not provide additional details about the child.
So far this year, 178 cases of measles have been recorded in New York, according to the state Department of Health. The vast majority – 170 cases – were outside New York City. Fifteen cases have been reported in Lewis County.
In October, Gov. Kathy Hochul declared the outbreak an emergency.
“Measles is highly contagious and vaccination remains our best protection against this dangerous disease,” she said in a statement after the death was announced Monday.
In neighboring Pennsylvania, health authorities are battling the worst epidemic the country has seen in 30 years. As of Monday, there have been 1,433 cases, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, including 269 hospitalizations. Six people died.
As of Friday, there were 4,852 cases of measles nationwide, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
New York health officials said people should make sure they are up to date on their measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccinations.
The first dose is usually given around the age of 1 year and another around the age of 5 years. Two doses provide 97% protection against measles, usually for life.
During outbreaks, babies as young as 6 months can receive one dose ahead of these two recommended injections.
Gn Health
