New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state disaster emergency on Monday in response to a significant increase in measles cases across rural areas of New York and surrounding states. The executive order aims to accelerate the state’s response to the outbreak by expanding vaccination efforts and improving access to testing.

Data as of Saturday indicates there have been 108 confirmed cases of measles in New York so far this year, including seven in New York City and 101 in other parts of the state. Since mid-July, 92 of those cases have emerged in underimmunized rural communities spanning 18 counties. Otsego County, located in Central New York, has reported the highest number of infections statewide with 20 cases since January.

The highly contagious nature of the measles virus, combined with pockets of low vaccination coverage, has fueled the recent surge. In announcing the emergency declaration, Governor Hochul emphasized the preventability of the illness through vaccination and the necessity of rapid public health action.

To enhance efforts to curb the outbreak, the executive order broadens the group of health professionals authorized to administer the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. New providers permitted to vaccinate under the order include paramedics, advanced emergency medical service providers, pharmacists, and midwives, in addition to physicians. Furthermore, nurses will now have the authority to order measles testing, aiming to expedite diagnosis and containment measures.

“These emergency measures will protect New Yorkers and support our community partners as they work tirelessly to address the spread of this disease,” Governor Hochul said in a statement. The move seeks to increase vaccination rates rapidly and strengthen testing capabilities in affected communities to halt further transmission.

Health officials continue to urge residents, particularly in underimmunized areas, to receive the MMR vaccine to prevent serious illness and potential fatalities related to measles, which remains one of the most contagious respiratory diseases. The state’s expanded protocols are expected to provide greater flexibility in responding to the evolving outbreak and safeguard public health.