New York Governor declares disaster emergency as measles cases hit 108

New York Governor Kathy Hochul on Monday declared a disaster emergency across the state as measles cases reached 108 this year. The surge began on July 15, when 92 infections were confirmed in 18 counties. Pennsylvania, which shares a border with New York, reported 977 cases, many in its rural border counties, the governor said. The emergency order requires every measles‑mumps‑rubella vaccination to be entered in the New York state or New York City immunization registry within 72 hours of administration. A measles alert sign now hangs outside the Cohen Children’s Medical Center in New Hyde Park, warning visitors of the risk. Health officials say rapid reporting will help trace contacts and limit further spread. Schools and clinics have been asked to check that children are up to date with MMR shots. The governor urged parents to vaccinate promptly and warned that unvaccinated people face higher danger. The order also lets the health department share data with Pennsylvania officials to monitor cross‑border cases. Mobile vaccination teams will be sent to hard‑to‑reach areas in the affected counties. The World Health Organization has warned of rising global measles cases, adding urgency to the response.

Context

Measles spreads easily among people who lack vaccination. Outbreaks often appear near state borders where travel is common. Declaring a disaster emergency allows faster resource deployment and mandatory reporting to curb the spread.