New York Declares State Disaster Emergency Amid Measles Surge

Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state disaster emergency on Monday in response to a significant increase in measles cases across rural New York and adjacent states. The executive order aims to accelerate the state's response to the outbreak and facilitate the vaccination of more New Yorkers against the highly contagious disease.

As of Saturday, New York City has recorded seven confirmed measles cases this year, while the rest of the state has reported 101. A substantial portion of these cases, 92 in total, have emerged since mid-July in under-immunized rural communities spread across 18 counties.

"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," Hochul stated. "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."

The declaration allows the state to mobilize resources and healthcare professionals more effectively to address the escalating public health threat posed by the measles outbreak. The focus is on swift containment and prevention through increased vaccination and testing efforts.