A child in Lewis County, New York, has died from measles, the state's first such death in three decades, amid an ongoing measles outbreak.
State officials announced Monday that a child in rural northern New York has died after contracting measles. The death occurred in Lewis County, which is located approximately 93 miles (150 kilometers) north of Syracuse, according to Governor Kathy Hochul.
This marks the first death from the disease in New York in 30 years. The New York State Department of Health issued a statement expressing sadness regarding the death in Lewis County, which is associated with an ongoing measles outbreak.
"We are deeply saddened by the death of a child in Lewis County associated with the ongoing measles outbreak. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the child's family and loved ones and ask that their privacy be respected during this difficult time," the New York State Department of Health said in a statement.
Governor Hochul stated she was "heartbroken" to learn of the death and said, "As a mother and grandmother, I cannot imagine what this family is going through. My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved this child."
Four weeks prior to the announcement, Governor Hochul declared a State Disaster Emergency due to the measles outbreak affecting areas of New York and neighboring states. This declaration expanded the pool of people eligible to administer measles vaccines and provided access to additional resources. The Governor also stated she planned to seek federal assistance to combat the outbreak.
The New York State Department of Health stated that measles is a highly contagious disease that can cause serious complications and death. The department noted that vaccination is the "best protection against measles."
As of October 24, New York had recorded 178 measles cases this year. Of those cases, 170 were located outside of New York City, while eight were recorded within the city. State health officials have urged New Yorkers to ensure they are up-to-date on measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccines.
Regarding federal policy, the Trump administration has implemented changes to federal vaccine policy, including reviewing how vaccines are recommended and revising the childhood immunization schedule. However, the CDC continues to recommend two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine for children, stating that two doses provide the "best protection against measles."
The death in Lewis County highlights the impact of the ongoing measles outbreak in the Northeast. The New York State Department of Health is currently working with local partners and county health departments to provide the MMR vaccine to any unvaccinated individuals who request it and to monitor and investigate all reported cases.
Sources
This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.
The day's checked news, by email
One short email a day with the top stories. Free, and you can unsubscribe in one click.
Or follow for the latest news:
No comments yet. Start the discussion.
Preliminary research presented at the American Heart Association shows caffeinated energy drinks and stimulant supplements are linked to higher rates of cardiac arrest and heart attacks.
The latest Ebola outbreak, driven by the Bundibugyo strain, has resulted in 5,376 deaths across Africa, with the majority occurring in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
