NY Declares Emergency as Measles Outbreak Spreads from Pennsylvania

New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a statewide emergency Monday as a measles outbreak moves from Pennsylvania into the Empire State. This marks the first time such an order has been issued since infections spiked across the United States in 2025. As of Oct. 2, Pennsylvania had recorded 977 cases and five deaths, with the majority clustering in rural areas. New York officials have confirmed 108 cases so far.

Governor Hochul noted that no citizen should suffer severe illness or death from a disease prevented by a vaccine. "No one should get seriously ill or die from a vaccine-preventable disease," she said in an official statement. The country is now facing its worst measles year since 1991, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention tallying nearly 3,900 cases nationwide.

To combat the spread, Hochul signed an executive order that broadens the list of health workers approved to give measles shots. Registered nurses can now order tests for suspected measles infections. Pharmacists are authorized to vaccinate children as young as two years old. All MMR vaccinations must be reported to state or New York City immunization registries within 72 hours, and adult consent for that reporting is waived.

Health officials in Pennsylvania and Philadelphia, along with the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, stated they were working closely on a plan last month. Their goal was to ensure exposed infants receive preventative antibody products to stop or lessen severe disease while preventing further spread. Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson, commissioner of the Philadelphia health department, wrote that these exposures remind everyone how vital it is to stay current with vaccinations.

The department advised specific groups to contact their doctors immediately after exposure. This includes anyone not immune, unsure of their vaccination status, infants, pregnant women who lack immunity, or those who are immunocompromised. Officials also warned that some people might still qualify for treatment after exposure that prevents measles or reduces illness severity. Anyone developing symptoms should call ahead before visiting a healthcare facility and tell the provider about possible exposure.

Data shows measles is highly contagious and can be fatal in one to three patients per 1,000 cases. The virus causes long-term health problems like pneumonia and brain swelling. Nearly 20% of people who contract the disease end up hospitalized.