An unvaccinated child in Lewis County has died of measles, marking New York’s first death from the highly contagious disease in more than 30 years. The New York State Department of Health and Lewis County Public Health announced the fatality on Monday.
This death comes just four weeks after Governor Kathy Hochul declared a State Disaster Emergency in response to a surge in measles cases across the state. The last recorded measles-related death in New York occurred during a large outbreak in New York City between March 1990 and the summer of 1991, which resulted in at least 21 deaths and thousands of illnesses.
Governor Hochul expressed her sorrow, stating, "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." She emphasized that measles is highly contagious and vaccination remains the most effective protection.
Lewis County, located in the state's North Country region, has reported 15 measles cases this year, all among unvaccinated individuals, making it the county with the fourth-highest case count in the state. Seneca County currently leads with 30 cases.
The State Disaster Emergency, declared last month, allows for a swift state response, including enabling healthcare professionals to order measles testing and providing epidemiological support for case investigation, contact tracing, and expedited laboratory testing. Health officials are urging New Yorkers to ensure they are up-to-date on the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine and to follow health advisories, particularly when traveling with unvaccinated individuals.
Measles is a viral illness that spreads through the air via respiratory droplets. Symptoms typically begin with fever, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes, followed by a characteristic rash. Complications can include pneumonia, encephalitis (brain infection), and death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine, with the first dose given between 12 to 15 months of age and the second between 4 and 6 years of age. Infants as young as 6 months may receive a dose if traveling internationally or residing in areas with active measles transmission.