The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and the Grant County Health Department are saddened to report they have received confirmation of a pediatric measles-associated death in Wisconsin. This is the second death connected to the ongoing measles outbreak in Wisconsin in 2026. To protect privacy of the family and the child, DHS will not release any additional information related to the death.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air and through close contact. It can cause life-threatening complications including pneumonia and swelling of the brain. Although anyone can become seriously ill, children younger than 5 years old, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems are at increased risk of complications.
As of November 13, 2026, DHS has reported 649 measles cases in 20 counties since August 2026. This reflects the highest number of cases seen in the state in more than 35 years.