New York State Declares Measles Emergency as Cases Rise

A statewide health emergency can be unsettling, especially when it involves a disease many of us haven't had to think much about in years.

Whether you're raising little ones, caring for an older family member, or just trying to stay on top of what is happening around New York, here is what you need to know about the state’s measles emergency.

Governor Kathy Hochul signed Executive Order 65 on October 5, declaring a statewide disaster emergency because of the ongoing measles outbreak. The order is set to remain in effect through November 4.

New York State Measles Cases Have Risen Sharply

According to the Governor’s Office announcement, New York had reported 108 measles cases among state residents in 2026 as of October 3.

That includes 92 cases reported since July 15 in under-immunized rural communities across 18 counties.

The executive order does not name the 18 counties. State health officials have said the growing cases are concentrated in rural areas, and the New York State Department of Health previously identified increased activity in the Capital, Central, and Western New York regions.

The statewide emergency does not mean there is a reported measles case in every community. It gives New York more flexibility to assist local health departments as they investigate cases, identify and monitor close contacts, offer vaccines, and share information with residents.

Pennsylvania Outbreak Raises Concern Near New York

New York leaders also pointed to a rapidly growing measles outbreak in neighboring Pennsylvania.

As of October 2, Pennsylvania had reported 977 cases and five deaths in rural counties near the New York border. The Governor’s Office says the emergency order will help New York respond more quickly as health departments work to contain cases and prevent further spread.

READ MORE: Confirmed Measles Case Treated at Broome County Hospital 

What New York’s Measles Emergency Order Means

The emergency order is designed to make measles vaccines and testing easier to access.

Under Executive Order 65, trained paramedics, advanced EMS providers, midwives, and pharmacists may administer MMR vaccines under state guidelines. Pharmacists can administer the vaccine to children ages 2 and older.

Registered nurses may also order certain measles tests for people suspected of having the virus. The order gives the state more flexibility to obtain supplies, services, technology, and equipment needed for the public health response.

The executive order specifically says that nobody can be vaccinated without their consent, or the consent of someone legally authorized to provide it.

Measles Symptoms New York Families Should Watch For

Measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air when an infected person breathes or coughs. A person can spread measles from four days before a rash appears until four days after it develops.

Symptoms may start seven to 14 days after exposure, but can take up to 21 days to appear. Watch for a high fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, and a red rash that often begins near the hairline before spreading down the body.

If you or your child develops a fever and rash, call your doctor, urgent care, or emergency department before arriving. That call gives healthcare workers time to take precautions that can help protect other patients.

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How to Protect Your Family From Measles in New York

The state says the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, commonly called the MMR vaccine, is the best protection against measles.

If you're unsure whether you or your child is up to date, contact your healthcare provider or local health department. State officials say one MMR dose provides about 93 percent protection, while two doses provide about 97 percent protection.

You can read the state’s full measles outbreak announcement and Executive Order 65 for more information about New York’s response.