Measles is a highly contagious virus that causes fever and a rash, and it can lead to serious health complications. Anyone who is not vaccinated against the virus can get measles at any age.
There have been three measles cases this year in NYC as of April 11, 2025, with 14 cases in 2024. Nationally, measles cases are on the rise, with 17 states having reported 378 measles cases, including several deaths, as of March 2025.
How Does Measles Spread?
- Measles spreads through the air when someone with measles sneezes or coughs. The virus can stay in the air for up to two hours. People can get measles just by being in a room where a person with measles has been, even up to two hours later.
- People can get measles by touching a surface that has the virus on it and then touching their eyes, nose, or mouth.
- A person can be contagious four days before the rash appears and for four days after.
- Measles is highly contagious among unvaccinated people.
How Can I Protect Myself and My Family from Measles?
Vaccination is the best way to prevent measles. Anyone who has received two doses of a measles vaccine is considered immune for life and unlikely to get measles. Vaccination is safe and effective.
In the U.S., the measles vaccine is combined with mumps and rubella vaccines into one vaccine called measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
What Are the Vaccination Requirements in New York City?
- All children enrolled in Pre-K, nursery school, day care programs, and Head Start are required to receive one dose of the MMR vaccine.
- Children enrolled in grades K-12 and college students must have two doses of the MMR vaccine.
- Health care workers should have received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine.
- IMPORTANT: Do not provide false information about your vaccine record, or your children’s vaccine record, on government documentation.
Where to Get Vaccinated
Most pediatricians offer MMR vaccines. For help finding a vaccination site:
- Call 311.
- Visit the Health Map.
- Visit the Fort Greene Immunization Clinic. To make an appointment, call 347-396-7943.
Sources: NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene; CDC; World Health Organization
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