New York reports first measles death in more than 30 years

New York health officials Monday reported the state’s first measles-associated death in more than 30 years.

A child in a rural county in northern New York died.

“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,” state health officials said in a statement.

The statement did not provide additional details about the child.

So far this year, 178 measles cases have been recorded in New York, according to the state Health Department. The vast majority — 170 cases — were outside New York City. Fifteen cases have been reported in Lewis County.

In October, Gov. Kathy Hochul declared the outbreak an emergency.

“Measles is highly contagious, and vaccination remains our best protection against this dangerous disease,” she said in a statement after the death was announced Monday.

In neighboring Pennsylvania, health officials are fighting the country’s worst outbreak in 30 years. As of Monday, there have been 1,433 cases, according to the Pennsylvania Health Department, including 269 hospitalizations. Six people have died.

As of Friday, there have been 4,852 measles cases nationally, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

New York health officials said people should make sure they are current on their measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccinations.

The first dose is typically given at around 1 year of age and another at around age 5. Two doses offer 97% protection against measles, usually for life.

During outbreaks, babies as young as 6 months old are eligible for a dose ahead of those two recommended shots.