No Current Cases in Rockland County
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 7, 2026 | Contact: Beth Cefalu, Director of Strategic Communications (845) 638-5645 |
New York Declares State of Emergency Due to Ongoing Measles Outbreak
No Current Cases in Rockland County
NEW CITY, NY, – The Rockland County Department of Health (RCDOH) encourages residents to make sure they are protected against measles following New York State’s declaration of a state of emergency due to an ongoing measles outbreak in the state.
As of October 2026, the Centers for Disease Control indicates the United States has 3,887 confirmed measles cases. This includes 108 cases in New York State, which declared a State of Emergency, and over 1,000 cases in neighboring Pennsylvania that resulted in five deaths – marking the largest single-state outbreak in decades.
“As of right now, Rockland County has no active cases thanks to our Rockland County Department of Health working hard to make sure families are vaccinated,” said County Executive Ed Day. “To successfully prevent measles from resurfacing in this county I urge our residents to get vaccinated immediately not just for measles, but for any vaccine preventable disease.”
Measles is among the most contagious viruses in the world. Up to 90 percent of unvaccinated individuals exposed to the virus may become infected. Transmission can occur simply by sharing the same airspace as an infected person—even up to two hours after that individual has left the room—and before the characteristic rash appears.
Common symptoms include fever, rash, cough, conjunctivitis (red, watery eyes), and runny nose. Symptoms typically develop 10 to 12 days after exposure but may appear as early as 7 days or as late as 21 days following exposure.
The following guidance outlines key information for families regarding the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccination:
• All children should receive their first dose of MMR vaccine between 12 and 15 months of age.
• A second dose is routinely administered between 4 and 6 years of age; however, it may be given as soon as 28 days after the first dose if needed.
• Adults who have received only one dose of the vaccine are advised to obtain a second dose to ensure optimal protection.
• Adults who are unsure of their vaccination status should attempt to locate their immunization records or consult with their healthcare provider regarding testing for immunity.
• Individuals traveling internationally should have two documented doses of the MMR vaccine.
• Infants aged 6 to 11 months who will be traveling to areas with measles, local or international, should receive one dose of the MMR vaccine prior to travel.
“While Rockland County has not had a measles case since March of this year, surges in cases nationally and internationally continue to pose a risk,” said Dr. Mary Leahy, Rockland County Commissioner of Health. “We are working closely with our schools and healthcare providers and remain vigilant. We encourage residents to protect themselves and their families by staying up to date on their vaccinations. The MMR vaccine is safe, effective, and readily available at no cost for those who need it.”
The RCDOH will offer no cost MMR vaccinations at the following community locations:
• West Haverstraw Community Center: Friday, October 16, 1-3 PM
• Allison-Parris County Office Building, New City: Wednesday, October 21, 11 AM-2 PM
• Rockland Plaza, Nanuet: Wednesday, October 28, 11 AM-2 PM
The MMR vaccine is also available by appointment at RCDOH Immunization Clinics in Pomona and in Spring Valley. For appointments or more information, visit the RCDOH Immunization Clinic Webpage or call (845) 364-2520 or (845) 364-2524. The MMR vaccine will be provided without cost to those who need it.