New York declares state disaster emergency over measles. Here's what that means
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state disaster emergency to combat a measles outbreak, following a significant rise in cases. The order expands the authority of pharmacists and other health professionals to administer vaccines to children.
Why it matters
The emergency declaration highlights public health concerns regarding vaccine-preventable diseases and the need for expanded access to immunization.
558 New York Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state disaster emergency on Monday as neighboring Pennsylvania battles its largest measles outbreak in three decades. As of Oct. 3, New York has recorded 108 measles cases so far this year, 92 of those since mid-July across 18 rural counties where communities are under-immunized, according to Hochul's order.
"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," Hochul said in a statement . "No one should get seriously ill or die from a vaccine-preventable disease."
Measles cases surpass 1,000 in Pennsylvania amid the state's largest outbreak in decades
Also covering this story
6 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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New York declares state disaster emergency over rising measles cases. Here's what that means
New York state declares measles disaster amid resurgence of disease in US - Al Jazeera
New York Declares State of Emergency Over Measles Outbreak - Bloomberg.com
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