Infant dies of measles in Wisconsin first case since 1990
An infant in southwestern Wisconsin died from measles, marking the state's first death from the disease in 36 years.
Health officials confirm cause of death
State health officials announced the death on Thursday without specifying the exact location to protect family privacy. The coroner listed measles as the cause of death for the infant. Kirsten Johnson, secretary of the state health department, expressed sorrow over the tragedy involving a vaccine-preventable disease.
Vaccination rates and current cases
Vaccination coverage in the state has fallen below the 95 percent level needed to prevent outbreaks. As of Thursday, officials reported 431 measles cases with all but three occurring in unvaccinated people. Nine individuals required hospitalization during this outbreak.
National context for deaths
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed four measles-associated deaths across the United States this year. State health departments have reported higher numbers than the federal agency has verified so far. Pennsylvania officials are investigating a possible sixth death in their state alone.
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