Infant dies from measles as Wisconsin outbreak grows

Wisconsin reported the first measles-related death since 1990: an infant has died as the state’s outbreak continues to grow. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services said Thursday the death was confirmed, with Dr. Ryan Westergaard, chief medical officer for DHS, telling reporters at a media briefing that no other details were released due to family privacy. DHS reported nine measles hospitalizations in 2026 and 431 cases across 13 counties, which Westergaard said is “almost certainly an underestimate” because not everyone who is infected gets tested or reaches public health. He said 2026 totals are more than 10 times 2025’s count; last year had 36 cases. Officials emphasized MMR vaccination, saying two doses are about 97% protective and that roughly 95% community coverage is needed to prevent spread.