An unvaccinated adult in New Mexico tested positive for the measles virus after their death, the state Health Department said.

Summary

New Mexico has reported its first measles death amid a growing outbreak, marking the second U.S. fatality.

The deceased adult was unvaccinated and did not seek medical care. Measles cases have surged in West Texas, with 159 infections, mostly in Gaines County, and 10 cases in neighboring New Mexico.

The first death was a school-age child in Texas. Health officials stress the importance of the MMR vaccine, which is 97% effective.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has acknowledged vaccines’ role.