New York reports first measles-associated death in more than 30 years

A child in upstate New York died after contracting measles, according to health officials, the first measles-related death in the state in more than 30 years. 

The child lived in Lewis County, a rural area in the state’s North Country located east of Watertown, officials said late Monday. State and county health officials did not release any additional information. 

“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,” officials said in a statement. 

The announcement comes four weeks after Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) declared a state disaster emergency in response to growing measles cases, expanding the pool of eligible individuals who can administer measles vaccines and providing quicker access to additional resources if needed. 

As of Oct. 24, 178 cases had been reported across New York, according to the New York state and Lewis County health departments. Lewis County reported 15 cases as of Oct. 14, all affecting people who had not received the measles,........

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