Wisconsin reports infant death linked to measles outbreak

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services confirmed on Thursday that an infant had passed away due to measles, which is the immediate cause of death, according to the coroner. The department did not disclose additional details to respect the family's privacy. This incident occurs as the United States is experiencing its highest number of measles cases in decades, driven by outbreaks in various states and declining childhood vaccination rates in certain communities.

As of November 3, Wisconsin had reported 431 cases across 13 counties, with nine individuals hospitalized for severe symptoms, making it the largest number of measles cases seen in the state in over 35 years, according to state epidemiologist Ryan Westergaard. Westergaard noted during a media call that the 431 cases are likely an underestimate, as many infected individuals go untested and unnoticed by public health authorities.

State health officials have collaborated with local and Tribal health departments to manage the outbreak through case tracking, testing, and vaccination initiatives.