By Salma El-Sakka
New York health officials confirmed Monday the state's first measles-related death in more than three decades, a child in rural Lewis County.
So far this year, New York has recorded 178 measles cases, with 170 occurring outside New York City. Lewis County alone has reported 15 cases.
Emergency Declaration
Gov. Kathy Hochul declared the outbreak an emergency in October, emphasizing vaccination as the best protection against the highly contagious disease.
Regional and National Spread
Neighboring Pennsylvania is facing its worst outbreak in 30 years, with 1,433 cases, 269 hospitalizations, and six deaths as of Monday. Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports 4,852 cases this year.
Vaccination Recommendations
Health officials urge residents to ensure they are up to date on measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations. Two doses provide 97% protection; during outbreaks, infants as young as six months can receive an early dose.
