Wisconsin has reported its first measles-associated death in 36 years, following a surge of cases across the state, prompting health officials to emphasize the importance of vaccination.
Wisconsin health officials confirmed that an infant has died from measles, marking the state’s first death linked to the disease in 36 years. The announcement was made by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services on Thursday.
The infant passed away in southwestern Wisconsin, although the department did not disclose the specific location to protect the family’s privacy. The coroner has identified measles as the immediate cause of death.
“It is with a heavy heart we are reporting the first death of an infant connected with a measles outbreak in Wisconsin in many years. My heart is broken for the family,” said Kirsten Johnson, Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, in a statement.
Johnson expressed that any child’s death is a tragedy, particularly when it is associated with a vaccine-preventable disease. “Measles can cause serious illness and death, and it is important for all Wisconsinites to evaluate their risk and take steps to protect themselves and their family,” she added.
Measles can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia and encephalitis, which is swelling of the brain. The Department of Health Services noted that while anyone can suffer serious illness from measles, certain groups are at higher risk. These include children under five years old, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.
This year, Wisconsin has reported a total of 431 measles cases across 13 counties, marking the highest number of cases seen in the state in over 35 years. Among these cases, nine individuals required hospitalization due to severe symptoms.
State officials are urging residents to take proactive measures to prevent illness and protect their communities. They emphasize that the most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has previously stated that “Secretary Kennedy and CDC Director Dr. Erica Schwartz continue to make clear that the MMR vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles.”
Earlier this week, a child in Lewis County, New York, also died from measles, marking the first known measles-associated death in that state in over 30 years. New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her sorrow upon learning of the child’s death, 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.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported four measles-associated deaths nationwide this year, although state health departments have indicated that the actual number may be higher. In Pennsylvania, health officials have confirmed six measles-associated deaths in 2023 and are currently investigating another reported death that has not yet been classified as measles-associated.
This tragic incident in Wisconsin serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination and the potential consequences of vaccine-preventable diseases. As the state grapples with this outbreak, health officials continue to advocate for immunization as a crucial public health measure.
According to Fox News, the situation highlights the urgent need for increased awareness and action regarding measles vaccination and prevention efforts.