Daijiworld Media Network - New York

New York , Nov 4: The New York State Department of Health has confirmed the state's first known measles-associated death in more than 30 years following the death of a child in Lewis County.

In a statement issued on Monday evening, the department expressed sadness over the death and extended condolences to the child's family and loved ones, while requesting respect for their privacy.

According to the department, New York recorded 178 measles cases this year as of October 24. In October, Governor Kathy Hochul declared a State Disaster Emergency after the state crossed 100 cases.

Hochul also expressed condolences over the child's death, describing it as a devastating reminder of the dangers posed by the highly contagious disease.

She stressed that vaccination remains the best protection against measles and said the state would continue to follow proven public health measures to protect its residents.