Measles Outbreak Escalates / New York Declares Statewide Emergency as Measles Cases Surge Across US

New York, Oct 6: New York Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a statewide disaster emergency as measles cases continue to rise across the state, with health officials reporting 108 cases through October 3.

The emergency declaration, which is effective through November 4, comes as measles outbreaks expand in several under-immunised communities. The move also gives health professionals additional tools to test for and prevent the spread of the highly contagious disease.

According to the executive order, 108 measles cases have been recorded across New York this year through October 3. Of these, 92 cases have been reported since July 15 in under-immunised rural communities across 18 counties. New York City has reported seven cases, while 101 cases have been recorded elsewhere in the state.

Local health departments have already administered more than 1,000 measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine doses in rural areas since July 15 as part of efforts to contain the outbreak.The disaster declaration expands the number of healthcare professionals who can assist with the state's response. Under the emergency order, registered nurses will be permitted to order tests for people suspected of having measles. Pharmacists will also be allowed to administer MMR vaccines to children aged two and older. The order further requires all MMR vaccinations to be reported to New York State or New York City immunisation registries within 72 hours. Vaccination still requires consent from the patient or a legal guardian.

"No one should get seriously ill or die from a vaccine-preventable disease," Hochul said in a statement.The measles outbreak has also intensified in neighbouring Pennsylvania.

The state's health authorities had reported 977 measles cases and five deaths as of October 2, according to New York's executive order. Most of the cases have been reported in rural counties bordering New York.

Pennsylvania health officials said Monday that the state's total had crossed 1,000 cases, making it the largest measles outbreak in the state in more than three decades. The developments have raised concerns about the continued spread of measles in communities with low vaccination coverage.The measles surge is not limited to New York and Pennsylvania. The United States is experiencing its worst measles year since 1991, with nearly 3,900 cases reported nationwide, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Measles is highly contagious and can spread rapidly among people who are not immune. Health officials continue to encourage eligible people to stay up to date with recommended MMR vaccinations. With cases continuing to emerge in multiple states, New York's emergency declaration marks a significant escalation in efforts to contain the current outbreak.

New York Measles Outbreak: Key Facts

• New York cases: 108 through October 3

• Cases since July 15: 92

• New York City cases: 7

• Pennsylvania cases: More than 1,000