New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a statewide disaster emergency on October 5, 2026, expanding access to measles vaccination and testing as infections spread in rural communities. Her office said the measures would accelerate the response. Reuters reported that the emergency took effect Monday and runs through November 4.
The governor’s office recorded 108 confirmed cases through October 3: seven in New York City and 101 elsewhere in the state. Of the statewide total, 92 cases occurred since July 15 in under-immunized rural communities across 18 counties. Local health departments have given more than 1,000 measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine doses in rural areas since that date.
The order widens the range of professionals authorized to administer measles vaccines, including paramedics, advanced emergency medical services providers, midwives and pharmacists. Nurses may also order measles tests alongside physicians. The governor’s office said these changes support community partners working to contain transmission and improve access to prevention and diagnosis.
Reuters reported that pharmacists may vaccinate children from age two under the order. All MMR vaccinations must be entered into state or city immunization registries within 72 hours, with adult consent for that reporting waived. Consent from the patient or a legal guardian remains necessary for vaccination itself. The reporting change therefore does not remove consent for receiving a shot.
The emergency comes amid a wider US resurgence. CDC figures show 3,887 confirmed cases as of October 1, compared with 2,289 during all of 2025. These national figures have an earlier cutoff than New York’s October 3 tally. Reuters also reported that neighboring Pennsylvania passed 1,000 cases on Monday, adding to concern about outbreaks across state borders.
New York health officials are continuing case investigations, contact tracing and vaccination outreach with local partners, according to the governor’s office. Health Commissioner James McDonald urged residents to check their vaccination status and providers to remain ready to diagnose and treat cases. The response now combines that ongoing work with expanded staffing authority for vaccination and testing.
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