New York records 178th measles case as child dies
State health officials confirm the first measles-associated death in over three decades, occurring in Lewis County.
By Salma Farouk ·
New York State health officials confirmed on Monday that a child in Lewis County died from the ongoing measles outbreak. This marks the first measles-associated death in the state in more than 30 years.
The state has recorded 178 measles cases this year. Of those, 170 occurred outside New York City. Lewis County alone accounts for 15 of the state's confirmed cases.
Gov. Kathy Hochul declared the outbreak an emergency in October. Following the death announcement, she stated that measles is highly contagious and that vaccination remains the best protection against the disease.
Pennsylvania health officials are currently managing the nation's worst outbreak in 30 years. As of Monday, that state reported 1,433 cases. The outbreak has resulted in 269 hospitalizations and six deaths.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 4,852 measles cases nationally as of Oct. 30. Health officials advise residents to ensure they are current on the measles, mumps and rubella vaccinations. Two doses of the vaccine offer 97% protection, typically for life. During outbreaks, babies as young as 6 months old may receive an early dose before the standard shots at age 1 and age 5.
