NEW YORK STATE (WRGB) — Gov. Kathy Hochul has declared a state disaster emergency over measles.
The governor’s office says the outbreak is growing in rural areas of New York and neighboring states.
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Under the order, paramedics, advanced EMS providers, pharmacists and midwives can now give the measles vaccine. Nurses can also order testing.
She says as of Oct. 3, 2026, there have been seven measles cases in New York City and 101 cases outside New York City this year.
Health officials say the highly contagious disease can cause serious complications, including hospitalization, pneumonia, brain swelling and death.
They say a person with measles can spread the disease from four days before a rash appears until four days after the rash appears. They say the incubation period for measles can last up to 21 days. People exposed to measles are advised to quarantine for 21 days after exposure. People who test positive for measles should isolate until four days after the rash appears.