NYC Health Commissioner Bassett on measles: ‘we must continue to remain vigilant’
The New York City Department of Health has reported additional cases of measles, prompting the following statement from Health Commissioner Mary T. Bassett Wednesday:
“Two new cases of measles have been confirmed, bringing the total number of cases to 26. The outbreak remains centered in Northern Manhattan, with 12 pediatric and 14 adult cases confirmed to date. One of
the new cases is unrelated to the outbreak and was associated with foreign travel. After more than two weeks since the last confirmed case, this is a reminder that we must continue to remain vigilant.
“There are steps everyone can take to stop this outbreak. To prevent additional cases, I am calling on all urgent care centers, emergency departments, and clinics to promptly recognize measles symptoms in their
patients and take necessary precautions. New Yorkers, please do your part and make sure your family is vaccinated. If you suspect you have measles, call your medical provider before seeking medical attention
to avoid exposing others to this highly contagious virus.”
Measles is a disease caused by a virus that is spread through the air by breathing, coughing, or sneezing. Measles virus is highly contagious and can remain so for up to 2 hours in the air or on surfaces. For more infectious disease news and information, visit and “like” the Infectious Disease News Facebook page.
Symptoms of measles are rash, high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. Some people who become sick with measles also get an ear infection, diarrhea, or a serious lung infection, such as pneumonia. Although severe cases are rare, measles can cause swelling of the brain and even death.
Measles can be especially severe in infants and in people who are malnourished or who have weakened immune systems (such as from HIV infection or cancer or from certain drugs or therapies).
To protect yourself, getting vaccinated against the disease is key. In addition, practicing good hygiene such as frequent handwashing and avoiding touching your face are two other means.