New York State in the United States, has recorded its first measles-associated child death in more than 30 years, as health authorities continue to battle an ongoing outbreak of the highly contagious disease.
The New York State Department of Health announced on Monday that a child in Lewis County died in connection with the outbreak.
The incident marks the first known measles-related death in the state in over three decades.
In a joint statement with Lewis County Public Health, the state health department expressed condolences to the bereaved family while urging residents to take precautions against the disease.
“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 statement read.
The development comes about a month after Governor Kathy Hochul declared a State Disaster Emergency in response to the spread of measles across parts of New York and neighbouring states.
The emergency declaration was aimed at strengthening vaccination efforts and providing additional resources to affected communities.
According to the health department, New York recorded 178 measles cases as of October 24, with 170 reported outside New York City and eight within the city.
Health officials said they were working with local authorities to monitor infections, investigate reported cases and provide vaccines to unvaccinated residents.
The department also stressed the importance of immunisation, warning that measles can cause severe complications and death.
“Measles is a highly contagious disease that can cause serious complications and death. Vaccination is the best protection against measles,” the statement added.
The health authorities urged residents to ensure they were up to date with their measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccinations and to consult healthcare providers for guidance on immunisation.
