New York Declares Measles Disaster Emergency as US Cases Hit 1991 Levels
New York has declared a statewide disaster emergency over an ongoing measles outbreak, as cases across the United States reach their highest level since 1991.
Governor Kathy Hochul’s Executive Order No. 65 took effect October 5 and remains in place through November 4. New York reported 108 measles cases this year as of October 3, including cases in New York City and 18 counties outside the city. State officials say many recent infections have occurred in under-immunized rural communities.
The national picture is also serious. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports 3,869 measles cases in the United States in 2026, the highest annual total since 1991. Pennsylvania has reported more than 1,000 infections, making it one of the country’s hardest-hit areas.
The emergency order is designed to speed the public-health response. It expands which healthcare professionals may administer the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, allows registered nurses to order measles testing, and requires vaccination records to be reported promptly to state or city immunization systems.
For families, the most important next step is checking whether children and adults have documented protection. The CDC recommends two MMR doses for most children, students and others at elevated risk. Families should contact a healthcare provider or local health department about catch-up vaccination, travel concerns or a possible exposure.
Anyone who develops fever, cough, runny nose or a rash after a possible exposure should call a healthcare provider before visiting a clinic in person. Calling first helps protect other patients and staff.
Schools, childcare centers and neighborhood organizations can help by sharing verified information and directing residents to public-health resources. How is your community preparing for the outbreak? Share local vaccination-clinic information and questions in the discussion below.
