Wisconsin reports first measles death since 1990 amid outbreak

An infant in southwestern Wisconsin has died from measles, the first such death in the state since 1990, according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, as reported by 1360kktx.iheart.com and other sources.

The coroner listed measles as the immediate cause of death. For privacy reasons, no further details about the child’s identity or location have been released.

As of November 3, there have been 431 confirmed measles cases across 13 counties in Wisconsin, the highest number in over 35 years. Nine people have been hospitalized with severe symptoms, with most cases concentrated in Grant, Iowa, Lafayette, and Vernon counties.

Health officials emphasize that children under five, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for serious complications like pneumonia or brain swelling. The measles vaccine, which is 97% effective after two doses, remains the best protection against the virus.

Since August 1, over 42,000 doses of the MMR vaccine have been administered statewide, and 2,000 doses have been distributed to local health departments in affected areas. State officials urge residents to check vaccination status for themselves and their families.

Nationwide, eight measles deaths have been reported this year by state health departments, including six in Pennsylvania, one in New York, and one other case.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services continues to monitor the outbreak and encourages vaccination to prevent further cases and complications.