10/19/2026
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Posted by Fidelis Care
in
Health and Wellness,
Immunizations
New York State is responding to a growing measles outbreak in several rural counties. Gov. Kathy Hochul has declared a Disaster Emergency. This can help prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease and get more New Yorkers vaccinated and tested.
What is measles?
Measles is a virus that easily spreads through the air. It can spread when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even breathes. The virus can stay in the air for up to two hours. Symptoms may include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red or watery eyes
- A rash that usually begins on the face and spreads downward
Measles can cause serious health problems. The risk is higher for young children, pregnant people, and people with weak immune systems. Complications can include pneumonia, hospitalization, brain swelling, and, in rare cases, death.
What should I do to protect my family?
The best protection is the vaccine for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). Health officials stress the vaccine is the safest and most effective way to prevent measles. The New York State Department of Health asks New Yorkers to make sure their vaccines are up to date.
If you are not sure whether you or your children have had the MMR vaccine, ask your healthcare providers. Also, talk with your provider if you have questions about measles or the MMR vaccine. Most children get two doses of the MMR vaccine by age 6.
If you need help finding a provider, use our Find a Doctor tool. Or call 1-888-FIDELIS (1-888-343-3547), TTY: 711.
Sources
NYS Department of Health Measles Update
New York State Governor’s Office Executive Order No. 65: Declaring a Disaster Emergency in the State of New York Due to an Ongoing Measles Outbreak