A child in Lewis County, New York, has died after contracting measles, marking the state's first such death in 30 years.

State and county health officials announced the death Monday. The child was part of an outbreak in the rural northern county, where all 15 confirmed cases involved unvaccinated individuals.

New York has recorded 178 measles cases this year as of October 24, with 170 outside New York City. Lewis County ranks fourth in the state for cases.

The last measles-related death in New York occurred during a large outbreak in New York City from 1990 to 1991.

Nationally, more than 4,800 cases have been reported across the U.S. this year, representing the worst resurgence since 1991. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has noted three measles-associated deaths, though some states report higher figures.

Governor Kathy Hochul declared a statewide disaster emergency last month in response to rising cases in rural areas and neighboring states. The order expanded access to MMR vaccinations and testing.

Health officials urged residents to stay up to date on vaccinations, describing measles as highly contagious and noting that vaccination remains the best protection.

Hochul expressed condolences, stating her heart goes out to the family and emphasizing the risks when protections against preventable illnesses are eroded.