Everything We Know About The New York Measles Outbreak
Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state disaster emergency on Oct. 5 as measles cases rise across New York State. Here’s what we know.
Black News 
On Oct. 5, Governor Kathy Hochul issued an Executive Order declaring a State Disaster Emergency as New York continues to see an increase in measles cases, particularly in rural communities across the state and neighboring areas. The growing outbreak has raised concerns among health officials as the number of confirmed cases continues to climb.
Here’s what we know.
There are a total of 108 cases so far.
According to the New York State Department of Health’s recent announcement, as of Oct. 3, there have been seven confirmed measles cases in New York City and 101 cases in New York State, bringing the statewide total to 108 cases this year. The increase comes amid a broader rise in measles cases both in the United States and globally.
Since July 15, 92 cases have been reported among under-immunized rural communities across 18 counties. In response, local health departments have administered more than 1,000 doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine in rural areas of New York State. They have also launched the Measles Dashboard, a tool that will help residents and officials keep track of cases as they rise.
The outbreak has been bubbling up since 2024, beginning with 15 individual cases. In 2025, five were reported, according to Governor Hochul’s 2025 press conference.
New York Measles Outbreak: Why is the executive order being put in place?
According to a press release, the Executive Order allows the state to respond more quickly to the outbreak and gives healthcare professionals additional tools to help more New Yorkers get vaccinated and tested when necessary.
Hochul urged New Yorkers to get this year’s flu vaccine to help protect against infection. The Governor said she remains committed to protecting the health and safety of New Yorkers and has directed the New York State Department of Health to provide frequent public updates and resources throughout the flu season.
“After reviewing the latest data on measles cases in New York State, I am declaring a State Disaster Emergency to strengthen our ongoing efforts to confront this disease,” Governor Hochul said. “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.”
New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald added:
“I appreciate Governor Hochul’s swift action to help address ongoing measles cases. Department staff is working closely with local health departments and regional partners to track and contain the current measles outbreak. The measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine is the best protection — protecting nearly all people against disease who receive the recommended doses. I urge New Yorkers to check their vaccination status and make sure that they and their families are protected. I also ask health providers to be prepared to diagnose and treat any measles cases they encounter.”
The Executive Order also expands the pool of eligible healthcare professionals who can administer measles vaccines. The expanded group includes paramedics, advanced EMS providers, pharmacists and midwives. In addition, nurses can now order measles testing, alongside physicians.
Read more about the New York Measles outbreak on the next page.
