Measles in Wisconsin: Infant death reported, officials urge vaccination

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) announced on Thursday, Nov. 5, that an infant has died amid the ongoing measles outbreak in southwestern Wisconsin.State health officials noted it is Wisconsin's first measles-related death since 1990, with the coroner listing the immediate cause of death as measles."It is with a heavy heart we are reporting the first death of an infant connected with a measles outbreak in Wisconsin in many years. My heart is broken for the family," said DHS Secretary Kirsten Johnson. "Any death of a child is a tragedy and even more so when it is related to a vaccine-preventable disease. Measles can cause serious illness and death, and it is important for all Wisconsinites to evaluate their risk and take steps to protect themselves and their family."About MeaslesMeasles can cause life-threatening complications, such as pneumonia and brain swelling, according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. While anyone can experience severe illness, chil