New York State is facing a measles emergency. On Oct. 5, Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency across the state as cases continue to rise. Since the beginning of the year, 108 cases have been reported in New York, while Pennsylvania has reported 195 hospitalizations and 5 deaths.

Why Measles Spreads So Easily

Measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases known. The virus spreads through the air via droplets and aerosols released by an infected person, which can remain suspended indoors for several hours. On average, a person with measles can infect 18 susceptible people, making it far more contagious than seasonal influenza.

People with measles can spread the virus beginning about four days before the rash appears and continuing for about four days afterward. That means transmission can occur before the disease becomes visibly apparent.

Symptoms and Complications

Symptoms of measles generally appear 7 to 14 days after exposure, although the incubation period can be as long as 21 days. The illness typically begins with high fever, cough, runny nose and conjunctivitis. Koplik spots — small white spots on the lining of the cheeks — may also appear.

After several days, a rash develops, usually beginning on the face and gradually spreading to the trunk and limbs.

In most cases, measles resolves without permanent consequences, but complications can occur, particularly in young children and people who are immunocompromised. Common complications include ear infections and pneumonia, one of the leading causes of measles-related deaths.

A rare complication is encephalitis, which can occur in roughly1 in 1,000 cases. The virus can also cause temporary immune suppression, which may last for months or even years and leave people more vulnerable to other infections.

Years after the initial infection, a rare neurological disorder called subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) can develop. It is progressive and almost always fatal.

Protection: Two Doses of MMR

There is no specific treatment for measles. Treatment is primarily supportive, aimed at controlling symptoms and addressing complications. The most effective strategy is prevention.

The MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine is highly effective: two doses provide protection in about 97% of people. To stop the virus from circulating, however, vaccination coverage of at least 95% with two doses is needed. Below that threshold, the risk of transmission and outbreaks increases.

What’s Happening in New York State

As of Oct. 3, New York State had recorded 108 confirmed measles cases since the beginning of 2026: 7 in New York City and 101 elsewhere in the state.

In response, local health departments have administered more than 1,000 doses of the MMR vaccine.

On Oct. 5, Gov. Kathy Hochul signed an executive order declaring a statewide state of emergency through Nov. 4. The order temporarily expands the pool of health care professionals authorized to administer measles vaccines, including paramedics, advanced emergency medical technicians, pharmacists and midwives. It also allows nurses, in addition to physicians, to order diagnostic tests.

The State Department of Health is continuing to monitor cases, conduct contact tracing, expedite laboratory testing and support local health departments. Residents are also being urged to check their vaccination status.

In certain circumstances, children 6 to 11 months old may receive an early dose of the MMR vaccine, such as before international travel or following exposure to the virus.

“No one should become seriously ill or die from a disease that can be prevented with a vaccine,” Gov. Hochul said.

Sources

New York State Executive Chamber, Press Release and Public Health Advisory on Measles

World Health Organization (WHO), Measles Fact Sheet

Pennsylvania Department of Health, PA Department of Health Provides Statewide Update on Measles Outbreak, Harrisburg, Pa.