By Y.M. Lowy

Gov. Kathy Hochul has declared a State Disaster Emergency in response to a growing number of measles cases across rural areas of New York and neighboring states, while taking steps to make it easier for residents to get vaccinated and tested.

Under the executive order, the state is immediately expanding the pool of healthcare professionals who can administer measles vaccines. Paramedics, advanced EMS providers, midwives and pharmacists will now be able to administer the vaccines, while nurses will also have greater flexibility to order testing.

The move comes as New York continues to see measles cases this year. As of October 3, there have been 108 confirmed cases statewide, including seven in New York City.

Since July 15, 92 cases have been reported in under-immunized rural communities across 18 counties. Local health departments have administered more than 1,000 doses of the MMR vaccine in those areas as part of the ongoing response.

The state Department of Health is continuing to work with local health departments, healthcare providers and community organizations to monitor cases, conduct contact tracing, provide vaccines and increase awareness about measles.

Measles is highly contagious and can cause serious complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling and hospitalization. The MMR vaccine is the best protection against the disease, with two doses providing about 97 percent protection.

Anyone experiencing symptoms that could be measles, including high fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes and a later-developing rash, should call ahead before going to a medical facility so proper precautions can be taken.

photo: Shutterstock