Measles Outbreak New York 2026: 108 Cases, Emergency Declared

Measles Outbreak New York 2026: Complete Guide to Cases, Symptoms, Vaccines, and Emergency Measures

New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a statewide disaster emergency on October 5, 2026, after New York recorded 108 confirmed measles cases — the worst outbreak in the state in decades. Of those, 101 cases were reported outside New York City, concentrated in rural counties with low vaccination rates. The emergency declaration expanded who can administer vaccines and order testing. Nationwide, the U.S. is experiencing its worst measles year since 1991, with nearly 3,900 cases reported as of October 1, 2026.

Quick Facts

What Is the New York Measles Outbreak?

The New York measles outbreak is a statewide resurgence of measles — a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable viral disease — that has produced 108 confirmed cases in 2026, the highest annual total in New York in decades. The outbreak is concentrated in rural, underimmunized communities across upstate New York, with additional cases in New York City and Western New York.

Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, meaning it was no longer continuously transmitted within the country. The 2026 outbreak represents a significant reversal of that achievement. The U.S. is now experiencing its worst measles year since 1991, with nearly 3,900 cases reported nationally as of October 1, 2026.

The outbreak is part of a broader global and domestic increase. The World Health Organization estimates that approximately 11 million people worldwide will contract measles in 2026, with outbreaks across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. In the Americas Region alone, 47,459 confirmed measles cases, including 44 deaths, were reported between January and July 2026.

New York Measles Cases by County and Region

Cases are concentrated in rural counties with low MMR vaccination rates. Here is the county-level breakdown based on the New York State Department of Health’s measles dashboard:

Seneca and Steuben counties together account for roughly half of New York’s cases, while Otsego County — home to the Baseball Hall of Fame — leads the state with 20 cases. Since July 15, 2026, 92 cases have been reported in underimmunized rural communities across 18 counties.

How Does Measles Spread?

Measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The measles virus can live for up to two hours in the airspace where an infected person was present — meaning you can catch measles even after the infected person has left the room.

Key transmission facts:

• Measles is one of the most contagious infections known.

• If one person has measles, 90% of susceptible people close to that person will become infected.

• Infected people can spread measles from 4 days before through 4 days after the rash appears.

• The virus can be transmitted by breathing in contaminated air or, less commonly, by touching a contaminated surface and then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth.

Measles Symptoms: What to Watch For

Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure, though the incubation period can last up to 21 days. Early symptoms last 2 to 4 days before the rash appears.

Early symptoms (prodrome):

• High fever — may spike above 104°F

• Cough

• Runny nose (coryza)

• Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)

• Koplik spots — tiny blue-white spots on a red background inside the mouth, which may appear 2 to 3 days after symptoms begin and before the rash

Rash:

The characteristic maculopapular rash begins 3 to 5 days after the first symptoms. It typically starts at the hairline and spreads downward across the face, neck, trunk, and limbs. The rash fades after several days in the same order it appeared.

If you experience these symptoms: Isolate immediately, wear a mask, and contact your health care provider before leaving your home so that infection control precautions can be implemented upon arrival.

Measles Complications: Why This Matters

Measles is not a mild childhood illness. Complications include:

• Pneumonia — the most common serious complication and leading cause of measles-related death

• Hospitalization — required in severe cases

• Encephalitis — brain swelling that can cause permanent damage

• Immune amnesia — measles can reduce the immune system’s ability to fight other infections

• Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) — a rare but fatal brain disease that can develop years after infection

• Miscarriage and preterm birth in pregnant women

• Death — in rare cases

In Pennsylvania, which neighbors New York, five people have died from measles and 198 have been hospitalized during the 2026 outbreak. No deaths have been reported in New York State as of October 2026.

MMR Vaccine: Your Best Protection

The MMR vaccine is highly effective and safe. Two doses provide 97% protection against measles, while one dose provides 93% protection.

Vaccination recommendations by age:

Who should NOT receive the MMR vaccine:

• People with severe allergic reactions to vaccine components

• Pregnant women (wait until after delivery)

• People with severely compromised immune systems

• People taking immunosuppressive medications

New York Vaccination Rates: The Root of the Outbreak

Low vaccination rates are driving the outbreak. The statewide MMR vaccination rate for children under 2 is under 81% — well below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity.

County vaccination rates (1 MMR dose by age 2):

The counties hardest hit by the outbreak have fewer than 80% of children vaccinated with their first measles shot by age 2. In Yates County, the rate is closer to 53%. Among school-aged children in New York, the vaccination rate is higher at 97%.

New York School Immunization Requirements

New York State law requires MMR vaccination for school entry and attendance. Under Public Health Law Section 2164, every student entering or attending a public or nonpublic school or child care center must be vaccinated against measles, polio, varicella, and pertussis.

Key requirements:

• Students born on or after January 1, 1957 must submit proof of immunity to measles, including documentation of two doses of live measles vaccine.

• The first dose must be given no more than 4 days before the child’s first birthday; the second dose at least 28 days after the first.

• College students must also be vaccinated against MMR.

• Children must receive the first dose within 14 days of the first day of school or enrollment.

There are no non-medical exemptions for vaccination in New York State.

Measles Exposure: What to Do If You Were Exposed

If you were exposed to measles — either because you were notified by a health department or visited a location on an exposure list — take the following steps:

Step 1: Check your immunity status. You are considered immune if you:

• Have documented proof of two MMR doses

• Have laboratory evidence of immunity

• Were born before 1957

• Have a documented history of measles infection

Step 2: Monitor for symptoms for 21 days. Watch for high fever (above 101°F), cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes.

Step 3: Quarantine if unvaccinated. Unvaccinated individuals who are exposed should quarantine for 21 days after their last exposure.

Step 4: Seek post-exposure prophylaxis. If you are not immune, MMR vaccine may provide protection if administered within 72 hours of exposure, or immunoglobulin (IG) within 6 days of exposure.

Step 5: Stay home if symptomatic. If you develop symptoms, isolate immediately and contact your health care provider before leaving your home.

New York’s Emergency Measures

Governor Hochul’s disaster emergency declaration, effective October 5 through November 4, 2026, includes several key measures:

Expanded vaccinator pool. The emergency order extends the pool of eligible individuals who can administer measles vaccines to include paramedics, advanced EMS providers, pharmacists, and midwives.

Expanded testing authority. The order also allows nurses — in addition to physicians — to order measles testing.

Community vaccination efforts. Local officials have administered more than 1,000 vaccine doses across multiple counties in response to the outbreak.

Governor Hochul stated: “No one should get seriously ill or die from a vaccine-preventable disease. That is why I have taken steps to increase the number of health professionals who can vaccinate and test. These emergency measures will protect New Yorkers and support our community partners as they work tirelessly to address the spread of this disease”.

Measles Exposure Locations in New York

County health departments have issued exposure advisories throughout 2026. Notable exposure locations include:

For the most current exposure locations, check the New York State Measles Dashboard at www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/measles/data.htm[reference:42].

How the 2026 Outbreak Compares to 2019

The 2019 outbreak was driven by undervaccination in close-knit communities, particularly in Rockland County and parts of New York City. The 2026 outbreak is similarly driven by undervaccination, but in rural communities across upstate New York, with cases spread across 18 counties.

Decision Tree: Am I Protected Against Measles?

Have you had measles before?
├── YES → You have natural immunity. You are protected.
└── NO → Have you received 2 doses of MMR vaccine?
├── YES → You are 97% protected. You are considered immune.
└── NO → Have you received 1 dose of MMR vaccine?
├── YES → You are 93% protected. Consider a second dose.
└── NO → Were you born before 1957?
├── YES → You are generally considered immune.
└── NO → You are NOT protected. Get vaccinated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the measles outbreak still active in New York?

Yes. The outbreak is ongoing as of October 2026, with 108 confirmed cases statewide. The disaster emergency declaration is in effect through November 4, 2026, and health officials continue to identify new exposure locations and urge vaccination.

Do I need a measles booster if I was vaccinated as a child?

If you received two doses of the MMR vaccine as a child, you are considered fully protected and do not need a booster. Two doses provide 97% protection, which is considered lifelong immunity. If you are unsure whether you received two doses, check with your health care provider.

Can vaccinated people still get measles?

Yes, but it is rare. Two doses of MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles. In the rare event of a breakthrough infection, vaccinated people typically have milder illness and are less likely to spread the virus to others.

Who is most at risk from measles?

Infants under 12 months who are too young for routine vaccination, unvaccinated children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems are at highest risk of severe complications. Anyone who is not immune and is exposed to measles is at risk of infection.

What should I do if I think I have measles?

Isolate immediately, wear a mask, and contact your health care provider before leaving your home. Do not go to a waiting room or emergency department without calling ahead, as this can expose others. Your provider will advise you on testing and next steps.

How long do I need to quarantine after measles exposure?

Unvaccinated individuals who are exposed to measles should quarantine for 21 days after their last exposure. People who test positive for measles should isolate until 4 days after the rash appears.

Is the MMR vaccine free in New York?

The MMR vaccine is covered by most health insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare. Under the Affordable Care Act, preventive vaccines like MMR are covered without cost-sharing for most plans. Uninsured individuals can contact their county health department for free or low-cost vaccination options.

Can I still travel to New York if there is a measles outbreak?

Travel to New York is not restricted. However, health officials urge all New Yorkers and visitors to ensure they are up to date on MMR vaccinations, especially if traveling with unvaccinated young children.

Are there measles cases in New York City?

Yes, but the number is much lower than upstate. As of October 2026, there have been 7 confirmed cases in New York City, compared to 101 outside the city. The NYC case count is not unusual compared to prior years.

What is herd immunity and why does it matter?

Herd immunity occurs when enough people in a community are vaccinated to prevent sustained disease transmission. For measles, approximately 95% vaccination coverage is needed. Below that threshold, outbreaks can occur — which is exactly what is happening in rural New York counties where vaccination rates have fallen below 80%.

Can I get measles from someone who was vaccinated?

No. The MMR vaccine contains a weakened live virus that does not cause measles and cannot be transmitted to others. Vaccine-related rash and fever may occur 6–12 days after vaccination but are not contagious.

What should parents do if their child’s school has a measles case?

Unvaccinated children who are exposed will be excluded from school for 21 days. Ensure your child is vaccinated with two doses of MMR. If your child is not vaccinated, contact your health care provider to discuss vaccination as soon as possible.

Are there any exemptions to the MMR vaccine requirement in New York?

New York State eliminated non-medical exemptions (including religious exemptions) in 2019. Only medical exemptions, certified by a physician, are allowed. Children with approved medical exemptions may still face exclusion from school during outbreaks.

How many people have been hospitalized in New York?

Specific hospitalization data for New York is available on the state’s measles dashboard at www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/measles/data.htm. In neighboring Pennsylvania, 198 people have been hospitalized and five have died from measles in 2026.

Key Takeaways

• New York declared a statewide disaster emergency on October 5, 2026, after 108 confirmed measles cases — the worst outbreak in decades.

• 101 cases were reported outside New York City, concentrated in rural counties with low vaccination rates; 7 cases were in NYC.

• Otsego County (20 cases), Seneca County (17), and Steuben County (14) have the highest case counts.

• The U.S. is experiencing its worst measles year since 1991, with nearly 3,900 cases nationally.

• Low vaccination rates are driving the outbreak: statewide MMR coverage for children under 2 is under 81%, and as low as 53% in Yates County.

• Two doses of MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles; one dose is 93% effective.

• Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes, and a rash starting at the hairline.

• Unvaccinated individuals exposed to measles must quarantine for 21 days; confirmed cases must isolate until 4 days after the rash appears.

• The emergency declaration expanded who can administer vaccines and order testing.

• For current exposure locations and case data, visit the New York State Measles Dashboard at health.ny.gov.

Official Government Resources

• New York State Department of Health – Measles Dashboard: www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/measles/data.htm

• New York State Department of Health: www.health.ny.gov

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Measles: www.cdc.gov/measles

• CDC – Global Measles Outbreaks: www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/

• New York City Department of Health – Measles: www.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/measles.page

• Vaccines.gov: www.vaccines.gov

• USA.gov: www.usa.gov

• Benefits.gov: www.benefits.gov

Related Government Benefits and Resources

If you are affected by the measles outbreak or need health-related assistance, you may qualify for these programs:

Medicaid. Health coverage for low-income individuals and families, including vaccination coverage at no cost. Apply through your state Medicaid agency or HealthCare.gov.

Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Low-cost health coverage for children in families that earn too much for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance. Covers MMR vaccinations.

Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program. Provides free vaccines, including MMR, to children who are uninsured, underinsured, or eligible for Medicaid. Contact your state health department.

Health Insurance Marketplace. Affordable health insurance options under the Affordable Care Act. Open enrollment and special enrollment periods available at HealthCare.gov.

Medicare. Health coverage for people 65 and older and some younger people with disabilities. Covers MMR vaccine for eligible beneficiaries.

SNAP (Food Assistance). Helps low-income households buy food. Apply through your state SNAP agency.

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program). Helps pay heating and cooling bills. Apply through your state LIHEAP office.

TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families). Cash assistance for families with children. Apply through your state human services agency.

Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher. Rental assistance for low-income families. Apply through your local Public Housing Agency.

FEMA Assistance. Disaster relief for individuals and households. Apply through DisasterAssistance.gov.

Child Tax Credit. Tax credit for families with qualifying children. File through the IRS.

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Tax credit for working people with low to moderate income. File through the IRS.