Child Dies In New York's First Measles Death In 30 Years; Hochul Blames Washington A child in Lewis County has died in the state's ongoing measles outbreak , New York health officials said Monday, the first measles-associated death in New York in more than 30 years.
The state Department of Health and Lewis County Public Health announced the death in a joint statement that gave no details about the child, including age or vaccination status, and asked that the family's privacy be respected. "We are deeply saddened by the death of a child in Lewis County associated with the ongoing measles outbreak," the agencies said.
"Measles is a highly contagious disease that can cause serious complications and death. Vaccination is the best protection against measles." Gov. Kathy Hochul used her own statement - posted the day before the midterm elections - to take a shot at the federal government.
"This is New York's first measles-related death in 30 years, a devastating reminder of what's at stake