Wisconsin reports infant death linked to measles outbreak

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services announced on Thursday that an infant had died due to measles in the ongoing outbreak in the state, according to the coroner. The department refrained from disclosing additional information to respect the family's privacy. This death follows the United States experiencing its highest measles case numbers in decades, driven by outbreaks in multiple states and declining vaccination rates among certain communities.

As of November 3, Wisconsin had reported 431 cases across 13 counties, with nine individuals hospitalized for severe symptoms. State epidemiologist Ryan Westergaard stated that this represents the largest number of measles cases observed in Wisconsin in more than 35 years. The identified 431 cases are likely an underestimation, as not all infected individuals are tested or reported to public health authorities.

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