New York:A child in New York has died after contracting measles, marking the state's first death linked to the disease in 30 years, authorities announced on Monday. The tragic incident occurred in Lewis County, located in the northern part of the state.
According to Sharjah 24, New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her sorrow in a statement, saying, "I am heartbroken to learn that a child in Lewis County has died after contracting measles." She further commented on the federal health policies, linking the death to the erosion of progress in disease prevention under the Trump administration.
The United States is currently facing its most severe measles outbreak in 35 years, with 4,834 cases reported across 47 states as of October 29, According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In response to the outbreaks in New York and nearby states, Governor Hochul declared a disaster emergency in October.
Measles was declared eradicated in the United States in 2000 following successful vaccination campaigns. However, the disease has resurged in recent years due to rising vaccine skepticism and mistrust of health authorities. Measles can cause fever, respiratory symptoms, painful rashes, and severe complications such as pneumonia and brain inflammation, which can be fatal. Globally, measles continues to claim tens of thousands of lives annually.