New York governor declares state of emergency following the largest measles outbreak

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state disaster emergency as measles cases continue to rise across the state. The announcement comes as Pennsylvania fights its largest measles outbreak in the last three decade, as per The Guardian.

As of early October, New York had recorded 108 measles cases this year, with 92 of them reported since mid-July. In neighboring Pennsylvania, five people have died after contracting the disease, with 198 hospitalizations. This year has seen a sharp increase, as New York recorded just one measles case in 2023, 15 in 2024, and 48 in 2025.

The early symptoms may occur within the initial seven to 14 days, which may include cough, runny nose, high fever, and red, watery eyes. Later, there may be rashes like small, raised bumps, or flat red spots on different areas of the body. “After reviewing the latest data on measles cases in New York State, I am declaring a state disaster emergency to strengthen our ongoing efforts to confront this disease,” Hochul said in an official statement.

More people can give vaccines and order testing

The Department of Health launched a Measles Dashboard where public and healthcare officials can keep track of local health risks and raise awareness about the disease. Since July, the local health departments have administered over 1,000 doses of the MMR vaccine across rural areas of New York State to counter the outbreak.

Hochul mentioned that “No one should get seriously ill or die from a vaccine-preventable disease. That is why I have taken steps to increase the number of health professionals who can vaccinate and test. These emergency measures will protect New Yorkers and support our community partners as they work tirelessly to address the spread of this disease.”

The emergency order allows more healthcare professionals to administer measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines. The State Senator, Gustavo Rivera, linked the rise in measles cases to a decrease in childhood vaccines that are encouraged by the growing misinformation and rumors around vaccination campaigns.

He said that this is now causing a ‘public emergency’ and mentioned his support for the governor’s “efforts to expand vaccine access.” Rivera also urged all New Yorkers “to get their vaccinations to prevent the spread of diseases like measles and the flu, which pose a greater risk to vulnerable populations.”