New York declares disaster emergency over measles, 108 cases reported
New York state has declared a disaster emergency due to a significant rise in measles cases, particularly in under-immunized rural communities. The order expands the authority of various healthcare professionals to administer vaccines and order testing to curb the spread.
Why it matters
The resurgence of a vaccine-preventable disease highlights critical gaps in public health infrastructure and vaccination coverage in the United States.
New York state has declared a disaster emergency over a rise in measles cases, as the disease continues to spread across parts of the United States.Governor Kathy Hochul said the emergency declaration would expand the pool of health professionals who can administer measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccines and allow more healthcare workers to order testing.The declaration will remain in effect through November 4.108 cases reported in New YorkNew York has recorded 108 measles cases this year as of October 3, including seven in New York City and 101 elsewhere in the state.Hochul said 92 of the cases recorded since July 15 were in under-immunised rural communities across 18 counties.Local health departments have administered more than 1,000 MMR vaccine doses across rural parts of the state since July 15, according to the state health department.“No one should get seriously ill or die from a vaccine-preventable disease,” Hochul said, adding that…
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