Fourth Measles Case Confirmed In NY, Gov. Hochul Says

NEW YORK CITY — A fourth confirmed measles case has been reported in New York, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced on Wednesday.

Three cases have been confirmed in New York City, with one also in Suffolk County. None of the cases this year are related to each other or connected to the outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico.

The risk of measles to New Yorkers from these outbreaks is low, officials said.

“Measles doesn’t belong in the 21st century, and it certainly doesn’t belong in the State of New York,”Hochul said. “As measles outbreaks occur at home and around the globe, it’s critical that New Yorkers take the necessary steps to get vaccinated, get educated and stave off the spread of this preventable disease — the safety of our communities depends on it.”

In addition, the governor has called on clergy, activists and other community members to give accurate information about the measles vaccine and its effectiveness.

Hochul on Wednesday launched a new web portal to support access to vaccines and public health information in the wake of measles cases in the state.

In 2024, New York City had 14 confirmed cases, with one case in 2023.

Health officials have told residents to make sure they are current on all routine vaccinations, especially MMR vaccinations.

The virus can cause respiratory and neurological problems, pneumonia, vomiting, and other symptoms.

Measles symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose, watery red eyes, and a rash that usually appears between three and five days after symptoms begin.

The rash usually begins as flat red spots that appear on the face at the hairline and spread downward to the neck, torso, arms, legs, and feet.

Measles can also cause serious complications, such as pneumonia and encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and can lead to miscarriage in pregnant people, premature birth, or a low-birth-weight baby, Patch previously reported.