Milwaukee child care provider urges caution after infant dies from measles in Wisconsin

The tragic death of a Wisconsin infant due to measles is sending shockwaves through the state, prompting heightened concern among child care providers tasked with protecting some of the youngest and most vulnerable children. Shawntel Walton, owner of Destin for Success Family Childcare in Milwaukee, a 24-hour facility that cares for children as young as three weeks old, expressed the anxieties shared by many in her profession. “As a provider, and a mom, I want to do all I can to prevent that,” Walton stated during a recent interview. This devastating event underscores the severity of Wisconsin’s ongoing measles outbreak, which has already resulted in the state's largest number of cases in decades.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, as of November 6, 2026, there have been 477 confirmed cases of measles statewide, accompanied by nine hospitalizations and the infant's death—Wisconsin's first measles-related death since 1990. This tragic loss highlights the potential consequences of declining vaccination rates and the vulnerability of infants too young to receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Children typically receive their first MMR dose between 12 and 15 months of age, leaving infants susceptible to infection.

Walton’s response reflects a proactive approach to safety and cleanliness within her child care setting. “Increase my measures at the daycare, making sure I'm sanitizing, changing behind every diaper change, making sure every kid is washing their hands,” she explained. The emphasis on keeping sick children home is also paramount. “If we see that our kids, there's a rash or if there's any kind of symptoms where they're showing that they're sick, we should not bring them to day care ... or anywhere,” Walton stressed, highlighting the importance of preventing the spread of illness in communal environments. These measures are crucial given the contagiousness of measles; the airborne virus can remain in a room for as long as two hours after an infected person leaves.

Health officials consistently emphasize that vaccination remains the most effective preventative measure against measles. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are approximately 97% effective in preventing infection. For families with infants who are not yet eligible for vaccination, protecting those infants relies heavily on ensuring the immunity of surrounding individuals. Walton echoed this sentiment, encouraging parents to prioritize vaccination. “For those who do believe in getting those vaccines for our kids, I would encourage that,” she said, reflecting a widely held view within the medical community. Dr. Ryan Westergaard, chief medical officer for the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, emphasized that approximately 95% of the population needs to be vaccinated to prevent measles from spreading easily through a community.

The broader context of this tragedy reveals a concerning trend in Wisconsin's vaccination rates. A recent report from the Wisconsin Policy Forum indicates that only 87.4% of students in grades K-12 have met the state’s minimum immunization requirements for the 2025-26 school year, a rate considered “much lower than the level that would provide population-wide protection.” This decline is attributed to factors including increased required vaccinations, disruptions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, and a rise in personal conviction waivers. “Just last year, we reported 36 cases, and in the decade before that, most years we had either zero or one measles case per year,” Westergaard noted. The state has administered roughly 42,000 MMR doses since August, and health officials are recommending early vaccination for infants aged 6 to 11 months at increased risk of exposure. Approximately 500-600 infants have received this early dose in the last three months.

The Outbreak Chronology

The measles outbreak in Wisconsin began to escalate in 2026, with state health officials reporting 477 confirmed cases as of November 6. This represents a significant increase compared to previous years, with only 36 cases reported in 2025 and typically zero or one case per year in the decade prior. The outbreak has been particularly concentrated in southwestern Wisconsin, leading to heightened concern and preventative measures within communities. The tragic death of an infant due to measles marked the first such death in Wisconsin since 1990. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, the death was attributed to measles by the coroner. The outbreak highlights that measles can cause pneumonia, inflammation of the brain, permanent disability and death, and it begins with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes, with a telltale rash showing up several days later.

Community Response

Shawntel Walton’s concerns resonate deeply within the Milwaukee child care community, where providers are often on the front lines of protecting young children from illness. Her proactive measures and emphasis on hygiene reflect a commitment to safety that is shared by many in her profession. Walton expressed her distress, stating, “What can you do to prevent a baby from getting the measles? They're too young to get those shots.” This sentiment highlights the unique challenges faced by child care providers who care for infants too young to be vaccinated. The outbreak has prompted increased vigilance and a renewed focus on preventative measures across the region. Dr. Stephanie Schauer, the Wisconsin immunization program manager, emphasized the importance of ensuring all children have access to vaccines through programs like the Vaccines for Children program.

Protecting Infants

Given that infants under 12 months are too young to receive the MMR vaccine, health officials are emphasizing the importance of surrounding them with immune individuals. For infants aged 6 to 11 months considered at increased risk of exposure, an early dose of the MMR vaccine is now recommended. This proactive measure aims to provide some protection before the infant is eligible for the standard vaccination schedule. Families are urged to consult with their healthcare providers to determine if this early dose is appropriate for their child.

Katherine’s Perspective

As a community editor, I am deeply concerned by this outbreak and its impact on our youngest residents. The death of an infant from measles is a tragic reminder of the fragility of life and the vital role that community health plays in protecting our most vulnerable. It underscores the need for open and honest conversations about public health, grounded in scientific evidence and free from political division. We must also recognize the societal costs of preventable illnesses—not just in terms of healthcare expenses, but also in the emotional toll on families and the disruption to our schools and workplaces.

While the immediate focus is on containing the current outbreak, it’s crucial to address the underlying factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy. This requires a concerted effort from healthcare providers, community leaders, and trusted voices within our neighborhoods. It’s not about coercion; it’s about providing accurate information, addressing concerns with empathy, and fostering a culture of shared responsibility for the health and well-being of our community. The long-term health and stability of Wisconsin depend on it.

What to Do

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is continuing to monitor the measles outbreak closely and is working to increase vaccination rates across the state. Efforts include targeted outreach to communities with low vaccination coverage, public awareness campaigns, and collaboration with healthcare providers to ensure access to the MMR vaccine. Individuals who are not vaccinated are urged to receive the vaccine as soon as possible. For more information and resources, visit the Wisconsin Department of Health Services Immunization Program website. Families should also consult with their healthcare providers for personalized guidance and recommendations.