Tragedy marks 30 years since the last measles related death in NY
From the NYS Department of Health
ALBANY, N.Y. (November 2, 2026) – Based on information currently available, the New York State Department of Health and Lewis County Public Health issued the following joint statement on the first known measles-associated death in New York State in more than 30 years:
“We are deeply saddened by the death of a child in Lewis County associated with the ongoing measles outbreak. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the child’s family and loved ones and ask that their privacy be respected during this difficult time.
“Measles is a highly contagious disease that can cause serious complications and death. Vaccination is the best protection against measles.
“The Department has offered resources to Lewis County to assist with community outreach and support local vaccination efforts – both in response to this case, and as part of our ongoing efforts to support counties that are facing this ongoing measles outbreak.
“We urge New Yorkers to ensure they are up to date on measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccinations and speak to their healthcare provider about immunizations.”
Measles Prevention and Vaccine Information
The news comes four weeks after Governor Hochul declared a State Disaster Emergency in response to the measles outbreak across areas of New York and neighboring states, expanding the pool of eligible individuals who can administer measles vaccines and providing swift access to additional resources if needed.
The Department is working with county health departments and local partners to provide the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine to any unvaccinated individuals who request it and to closely monitor and investigate all reported cases. Monitoring and investigation activities, such as contact tracing, are ways public health officials work to keep affected communities safe from the spread of infectious diseases. Anyone who is contacted during these activities is encouraged to be responsive so that important information can be shared to prevent more infections.
As of October 24, there have been 178 total cases this year: 170 in New York State outside of the city, and eight in New York City.
All New Yorkers are urged to protect themselves by making sure they are up to date on their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccines and be aware of health advisories if traveling with unvaccinated individuals, especially young children.
The latest guidance issued during this outbreak recommends that infants 6 months and older receive an early dose of the MMR vaccine for protection before travel or if they are otherwise at risk of being exposed, such as residence in a community with measles transmission.
Measles is a highly contagious, serious respiratory disease that causes rash and fever. In some cases, measles can reduce the immune system’s ability to fight other infections like pneumonia. This disease is caused by a virus that is spread by coughing or sneezing into the air. Individuals can catch the disease by breathing in the virus or, less commonly, by touching a contaminated surface, then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Serious complications of measles include hospitalization, pneumonia, miscarriage, preterm birth, brain swelling, immune amnesia and death. Long-term serious complications can also include subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, a type of brain inflammation resulting from an earlier measles infection that can lead to permanent brain damage years after the initial infection.
The best protection against measles is the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Those traveling domestically or internationally should plan to be fully vaccinated against measles at least two weeks before departure. One dose provides 93 percent protection while two doses provide 97 percent protection. Babies as young as 6 months should get one dose of the MMR vaccine if they are traveling abroad or to an area where measles is prevalent or if they reside in a community with measles transmission. These babies should then continue to get their next two MMR vaccines on schedule for a total of three vaccines. Anyone who is not protected can get measles if exposed and can easily spread it to others when they return home.
The Department has released a health advisory for healthcare providers on clinical guidance for measles.
A person with measles can pass it to others as soon as four days before a rash appears and as late as four days after the rash appears. The incubation period for measles is up to 21 days. People who are exposed to measles and not immune should quarantine for 21 days after exposure, and those who test positive should isolate until four days after the rash appears.
Symptoms of measles can include the following:
Seven to 14 days, and up to 21 days after a measles infection
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
A rash can occur 3-5 days after symptoms become apparent:
- The rash usually begins as flat red spots that appear on the face at the hairline and spread downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs and feet.
- Small, raised bumps may also appear on top of the flat red spots.
- The spots may become joined together as they spread from the head to the rest of the body.
- When the rash appears, a person’s fever may spike to more than 104° Fahrenheit.
How Individuals Can Protect Themselves
- Individuals should check their vaccination status. Anyone who is unsure of their vaccination status should contact a healthcare provider or local health department.
- Know the symptoms. Measles often begins with fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A rash typically appears several days later, starting on the face and spreading across the body. Those who are sick should call ahead before visiting a clinic, urgent care, or emergency department so infection-control steps can be taken.
Immunization Guidance
- The MMR vaccine is highly effective and the best protection against measles.
- Most people born before 1957 are considered immune because they were likely exposed to the virus. Those who received the vaccine between 1963 and 1967 may have received a vaccine that wasn’t as effective and should talk to their health care provider about getting revaccinated.
Find the Department’s travel advisory urging New Yorkers to ensure they are fully vaccinated against measles before international travel or travel to an area in the U.S. experiencing an outbreak.
Healthcare providers should report suspected measles cases to their local health department.
Visit the Department’s dedicated measles website for information about measles, current case numbers, immunization data and information for providers.
More information about the measles vaccine can be found here.
