NY Governor Declares State Disaster Emergency in Response to Ongoing Measles Outbreak

On Monday, New York Governor Kathy Hochul issued an executive order declaring a state disaster emergency in response to the growing number of measles cases across rural areas of New York and neighboring states. As of Oct. 3, New York state health officials have reported 108 cases of measles among residents in 2026, including 92 cases reported since July 15 among under-immunized, rural communities in 18 counties. Only seven cases have been confirmed in New York City.

Meanwhile, New York’s neighboring state of Pennsylvania is experiencing a rapidly progressing measles outbreak with 1,004 cases and five deaths as of Oct. 5, in rural counties that border New York State.

The governor’s executive order enables the state to respond more swiftly to the outbreak and allows healthcare professionals to take additional steps that will help get more New Yorkers vaccinated and tested, if needed. For example, the executive order specifically extends the pool of eligible individuals who can administer measles vaccines, including paramedics, advanced EMS providers, pharmacists and midwives. In addition to physicians, the executive order also allows nurses to order testing.

The governor also received her seasonal flu shot and urged all New Yorkers to receive this year’s flu vaccine to protect against infection.

“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,” Governor Hochul said. “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 best protection against measles is the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Those traveling domestically or internationally should plan to be fully vaccinated against measles at least two weeks before departure. One dose provides 93% protection while two doses provide 97% protection. Since July 15, local health departments have administered over 1,000 doses of the MMR vaccine across rural areas of New York State.