New York state declares measles disaster amid resurgence of disease in US

New York has declared a state disaster emergency in response to a rapidly spreading measles outbreak, the first such declaration by a U.S. state since an increase in cases began in 2025. Governor Kathy Hochul issued the emergency declaration after 108 measles cases were confirmed among state residents by the end of July, with 92 cases reported since July 15, predominantly in under-immunized rural communities across 18 counties. Seven cases have been confirmed in New York City.

The outbreak coincides with rising measles cases across rural areas of New York and neighboring states. Pennsylvania reported 1,004 measles cases in 39 counties as of early 2026, including five measles-associated deaths. The state has expanded the list of healthcare workers qualified to administer measles vaccines.

To aid public awareness and tracking, the state launched a Measles Dashboard. The disaster emergency, set to last until November 4, aims to bolster vaccination efforts. As of October 1, the U.S. had reported 3,887 measles cases in 2026, with 3,869 cases originating from 47 jurisdictions and 18 cases among international visitors, according to the CDC.

The CDC advises two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine for optimal protection. However, recent data shows vaccination coverage among U.S. kindergartners has declined, falling to 92.4% in the 2025-2026 school year, below the 95% target.