The New York State Department of Health has reported a rise in measles cases, with 19 confirmed cases in New York City and 16 elsewhere in the state this year. This increase is part of a broader trend, as global and national measles cases have also risen. Many recent cases in the lower Hudson Valley are linked to international travel.
“Risk of inadvertent exposure across New York is increasing. Even one death from a preventable disease is tragic,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. “The measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is the most effective tool we have to protect ourselves and our loved ones.”
The Department is working alongside county health departments and local partners to monitor and investigate new cases, including conducting contact tracing efforts to limit further spread. Officials encourage anyone contacted during these investigations to respond so they can receive information that may help prevent more infections.
Health officials urge all residents to confirm their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations are current, especially those planning international travel or traveling with unvaccinated children. Infants between six and eleven months old are eligible for an early MMR dose if traveling abroad.
Measles spreads through airborne transmission when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by touching contaminated surfaces followed by contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth. The illness can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, miscarriage, preterm birth, brain swelling, long-term neurological damage like subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, hospitalization, or even death.
Officials recommend travelers be fully vaccinated at least two weeks before departure; one dose offers about 93 percent protection against measles while two doses offer approximately 97 percent protection. Babies who get an early dose before travel should still follow up with scheduled vaccinations for full protection.
A travel advisory issued on April 2 provides health care providers with specific vaccination schedules based on age for those traveling internationally or to outbreak areas within the United States. Individuals not protected by vaccination can contract measles during travel and risk spreading it upon return.
A person infected with measles can transmit the virus from four days before until four days after a rash appears. The incubation period lasts up to 21 days; exposed individuals should quarantine for three weeks after exposure while positive cases should isolate until four days after rash onset.
Healthcare providers are reminded to report suspected measles cases promptly to local health authorities.
For additional information on current case numbers, immunization statistics, provider guidance and resources about measles prevention:
– Visit the Department’s dedicated measles website.
– Access details about the MMR vaccine.
– Read the latest travel advisory.
