New York reports first measles death in 30 years

A child in New York died of measles, according to state health officials who announced the death late Monday. This incident marks the first reported measles-associated death in New York in over 30 years. It is the seventh measles-linked death reported in the United States this year, with the other six occurring in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania is currently experiencing a significant measles outbreak that has affected more than 1,430 people this year, representing the state’s first measles-related death in 35 years.

The article attributes the rise in vaccine-preventable outbreaks and deaths to declining vaccination rates fueled by health misinformation and anti-vaccine sentiments. It identifies Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the current US health secretary, as a prominent anti-vaccine activist who spent decades attacking vaccines and spreading misinformation before taking office. Since assuming his role, Kennedy has been reported to have dismantled and obstructed federal vaccine recommendations, launched studies into alleged vaccine harms, and promoted misinformation regarding vaccine injuries and preventable illnesses.