Health officials in New York are on high alert as measles cases continue to pop up across the state. Yesterday, the New York State Department of Health confirmed three new cases of measles in children under the age of five, all from Orange County and recently back from international trips. These latest reports bring New York's total to seven for this year, as noted by Gothamist.
The health concerns don't stop at Orange County borders, with an additional case identified in Ontario County, the state department shared, putting the statewide count at eight. The Ontario County patient, who had also traveled internationally, already recovered and isolated at home during their contagious period without leading to further spread, according to a report by Spectrum News.
The Department of Health emphasized, "There is no specific treatment for measles, and it is easily preventable." In a statement obtained by Gothamist, state Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald underscored the effectiveness of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine: "The most important thing people can do to protect themselves is to ensure they have had two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine."
Though no community transmissions have been reported, concern is rising over pockets of New York with lower vaccination rates. Notably, certain areas like parts of Staten Island and Hell’s Kitchen have seen vaccination levels for toddlers dip below the herd immunity threshold of 95%. Meanwhile the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports a troubling national surge, with over 930 measles cases this year—a stark increase from last year's tally.
Officials are urging all New Yorkers, particularly those planning to travel, to be up to date with their vaccinations, this advice comes on the heels of heightened measles activity both domestically and in Canada. The state Health Department provides resources on measles prevention on their website and they're asking travelers to exercise caution, especially when bringing along unvaccinated children, as per the release obtained by Spectrum News.
