Gov. Kathy Hochul declares statewide disaster emergency over measles outbreak

Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Monday that New York was entering a state disaster emergency to confront a rapidly expanding measles outbreak.

The declaration, issued under an executive order, allows the state to mobilize public‑health resources, coordinate with federal agencies, and expand the pool of health professionals authorized to vaccinate and test for measles.

New York’s health department reported 108 confirmed measles cases this year, including seven in New York City, with roughly half of the cases concentrated in three rural counties. Since mid‑July, 92 cases have appeared in under‑immunized rural communities across 18 counties.

Statewide, the United States is experiencing its worst measles season since 1991, with nearly 3,900 cases recorded. Pennsylvania, a neighboring state, has logged 977 cases and five deaths, while other states such as Utah, Ohio, Arizona, and Virginia have also seen notable increases.

The emergency order expands authority for registered nurses to order measles tests and permits pharmacists to vaccinate children as young as two years old. It also requires all MMR vaccinations to be reported to state or New York City immunization registries within 72 hours and waives adult consent for such reporting.

"No one should get seriously ill or die from a vaccine‑preventable disease," Hochul said in her statement, adding that the measures are intended to protect New Yorkers and support community partners working tirelessly to address the spread.

State health officials will deploy additional vaccination clinics, increase public‑awareness campaigns, and work closely with neighboring jurisdictions to contain the virus and prevent further transmission.

The emergency will remain in effect while vaccination efforts intensify and case numbers are monitored; no measles‑related deaths have been reported in New York to date.