New York Reports First Measles-Related Death in More Than 30 Years

New York State health officials have confirmed a heartbreaking development as the state continues to deal with an ongoing measles outbreak. A child has died from a measles-associated illness, marking the first known death of its kind in New York in more than 30 years.

Child Dies From Measles in New York

The New York State Department of Health and Lewis County Public Health confirmed in a joint statement released Monday, November 2, that a child in Lewis County has passed away.

"We are deeply saddened by the death of a child in Lewis County associated with the ongoing measles outbreak," officials said in the statement. They also extended their condolences to the child's family and loved ones, asking that their privacy be respected during this difficult time.

Officials have not released additional information about the child or the circumstances surrounding the death.

Measles Death in New York

Measles Cases Continue to Rise Across New York

The tragic news comes about a month after Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state disaster emergency in response to the measles outbreak affecting parts of New York and neighboring states. As of October 24, New York had reported 178 measles cases this year, including eight in New York City, according to state health officials.

The emergency declaration allows registered nurses to order specimen collection and testing for people suspected of having measles, making it easier to identify and respond to potential cases.

SEE ALSO: New York Ranks as the State Where People Go to Bed the Latest

The outbreak comes as measles cases continue to climb nationwide. More than 4,800 cases have been confirmed across the United States this year, marking the highest number of infections since 1991. Health officials say at least 96% of measles cases reported nationally this year have involved people who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown.

What Are the Symptoms of Measles?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), early symptoms of measles can include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A fever can reach 104 degrees or higher.

A few days after symptoms begin, some patients may develop tiny white spots inside their mouths known as Koplik spots. A few days later, a rash typically appears along the hairline and face before spreading down the neck and across the rest of the body.

The CDC recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine to help protect against measles. The first dose is recommended for children between 12 and 15 months old, with a second dose between ages 4 and 6. According to the CDC, one dose of the vaccine is about 93% effective at preventing measles, while two doses are approximately 97% effective.