First NY Measles Case Confirmed Outside of the City

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Amidst a surge in measles cases both domestically and internationally, the New York State Department of Health has revealed the first case of measles in New York State outside of New York City in 2024 and the third case in the state this year. The Nassau County patient was found to have the condition, which was verified by the Department's Wadsworth Laboratory in Albany.

Along with Nassau County health officials, the State Health Department is keeping a close eye on this situation and has notified the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In 2000, measles was declared eliminated from the United States. That means the disease is no longer constantly present in this country. However, travelers continue to bring measles into the United States, and it can sometimes spread and cause outbreaks among people who are not vaccinated. It is recommended that everyone in New York ensure they are current on critical, life-saving vaccinations as a means of defense." ~ CDC Statement

17 states have confirmed at least one case of measles: Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington.

The highest number of measles cases, 17, has been reported in Chicago, Illinois. Most of these cases were found at a migrant shelter.

How The Measles Infection is Transmitted

Measles is a very contagious respiratory virus spread by droplets from coughing or sneezing. Another person breathes in the virus and becomes infected. Touching a contaminated surface and then touching the mouth, nose or eyes is another way the virus is transmitted.

The incubation period for measles is up to 21 days.

Symptoms of measles can include the following:

7-14 days, and up to 21 days after a measles infection, these symptoms may present:

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes

3-5 days after symptoms begin, a rash occurs

• Generally, the rash first shows as flat red spots on the hairline and may spread to the neck, arms, trunk, legs, and feet.
• Small, raised bumps may also appear on top of the flat red spots.
• When the rash appears, a fever may spike to more than 104° Fahrenheit.

"Our epidemiologists and Department staff with the Divisions of Vaccine Excellence (DOVE) and Epidemiology are working hand in hand with our experts in the Wadsworth Laboratory as well as Nassau County health officials to monitor and investigate this case and any potential exposures," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said.

He added, "The most important thing people can do to protect themselves is to verify they've been properly immunized against measles and immediately get a shot if they are not."