NYSDOH urges all New Yorkers to be fully vaccinated against measles before traveling
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ALBANY, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) -- The New York State Department of Health issued a travel advisory on Wednesday, April 2, urging all New Yorkers to make sure they're fully vaccinated against measles before traveling to an area experiencing an outbreak -- nationally or internationally.
Measles is a highly contagious, serious respiratory disease that causes rash and fever.
483 measles cases have been reported in the U.S. as of March 26, 2025. So far, the total number of measles cases in the U.S. in 2025 has already surpassed the total number of measles cases in all of 2024.
“Measles can be a serious disease. It is not just a rash; it can cause pneumonia, hospitalization and even death," said Dr. James McDonald, the State Health Commissioner. "Protect yourself and your family against measles and make sure you are up-to-date on immunization with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.”
There have been four total cases of measles reported in New York State so far this year: three in New York City and one in Suffolk County. None of the cases this year are related to the outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico. The risk of measles to New Yorkers from these outbreaks is low.
The best protection against measles is the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. You should plan to be fully vaccinated against measles at least two weeks before traveling.
The Department recommends that you receive two doses of immunization. If the trip is less than two weeks away and you're not immunized, the Department recommends that you still get one dose of MMR. One dose provides 93% protection. Two doses provide 97% protection.
After travel, individuals should watch for symptoms for three weeks upon return and avoid contact with others who are sick. Symptoms for measles can include the following:
- High fever (may spike to more than 104° F)
- Cough
- Runny nose (coryza)
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis or pink eye)
- Rash (3-5 days after symptoms begin)
If you're unsure if you're up to date on your vaccines, you can reach out to your healthcare provider.
You can visit this link to find out more information about measles and immunization data.