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- calendar_today November 5, 2026
Wisconsin Reports Its First Measles Death Since 1990
An infant in Wisconsin has died of measles, marking the state’s first measles-related fatality in more than three decades. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services announced the death on Thursday, confirming that a coroner listed measles as the immediate cause. This case is the third measles death reported in the United States this week.
Other Recent Measles Deaths in the U.S.
This announcement closely follows two other measles-associated deaths: one in Pennsylvania and another in New York. On Wednesday, Pennsylvania’s health department reported the death of an unvaccinated resident in Jefferson County who tested positive for measles, marking the state’s sixth measles-associated fatality this year. Earlier in the week, health officials in New York revealed that a child in Lewis County had died from the disease. In October, New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a statewide disaster emergency after a surge in measles cases.
Rising Measles Mortality and Cases in 2026
This year, eight measles-associated deaths have been recorded across the U.S., the highest national measles death toll since 1991. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed four of these fatalities, with further updates pending as more information is reviewed. According to state health departments, none of the deceased individuals had been vaccinated against measles; in some cases, individuals were ineligible for vaccination due to age or health concerns. Children typically receive their first measles vaccine dose around their first birthday.
Largest Measles Outbreak in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is currently experiencing the country’s largest measles outbreak this year, with nearly 1,500 cases spanning 45 counties. While a recent death in Franklin County was reported as possibly linked to measles, Pennsylvania’s health department has not confirmed it as measles-associated.
National Trends and Vaccination Concerns
According to CDC measles data, the United States has recorded 4,852 measles cases this year—more than double last year’s number and the highest since 1991. Officials attribute the rise in measles cases and deaths to declining vaccination rates nationwide. Two doses of the measles vaccine are considered 97% effective in preventing the disease.
Measles was classified as eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, meaning the virus no longer circulated constantly, though occasional outbreaks still occur. However, the Pan American Health Organization, part of the World Health Organization, is set to meet soon to discuss whether the United States should retain that elimination status.
The Risks and Symptoms of Measles Infection
Measles infection is especially dangerous for infants and young children whose immune systems are less developed. According to the CDC, about 1 to 3 out of every 1,000 children with measles die from respiratory and neurological complications. Initial symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, and pink or watery eyes, followed by white spots inside the cheeks and a red, blotchy rash. In severe cases, complications such as pneumonia or brain swelling can occur.
State Health Departments and Prevention Efforts
State health departments continue to monitor measles outbreaks and emphasize the importance of vaccination to prevent further deaths. The surge in measles cases and related fatalities serves as a reminder of the risks posed by falling vaccination rates, particularly for unvaccinated infants and vulnerable populations.
Related coverage
Source: nbcnews.com.
