State Policy · NY
Hochul Declares Disaster Emergency Over New York Measles Outbreak
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a statewide disaster emergency Monday in response to a measles outbreak that has sickened 108 people as of Oct. 3, with most cases occurring outside New York City. The declaration marks the state's first disaster emergency of the year and is intended to mobilize additional public health resources to contain the outbreak. Seven cases have occurred in New York City itself, according to state officials. The move signals an escalating public health response that will likely involve vaccination campaigns and coordination with local health departments and providers.
Why it mattersState Medicaid agencies and managed care plans will need to support rapid vaccination outreach and ensure coverage access for measles testing, treatment, and immunization as the outbreak response ramps up.