Suffolk County Health Alert

Suffolk County health officials are on high alert as they collaborate with Northwell Health’s Cohen Children’s Medical Center to contain a measles outbreak after a child visiting the facility was diagnosed with the virus this past week. This alarming development has raised concerns not just locally, but across New York as the state experiences an uptick in measles cases.

Identification of Exposed Residents

The hospital, situated on the border between Queens and Long Island, has identified 12 residents from Suffolk County who may have come into contact with the infected child during their visit to the hospital between March 3 and 6. Remarkably, 11 of these individuals were vaccinated against measles, as shared by Grace Kelly-McGovern, a spokesperson for the Suffolk County health department.

Precautionary Measures

Only one case involved a child too young for vaccination, who has since been placed in quarantine as a precautionary measure. The diagnosed child was also too young to receive the vaccine, highlighting the vulnerability of infants to this dangerous disease.

Rising Cases Across the State

This incident marks the third reported case of measles in New York for the year, occurring amidst ongoing outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico, which further stresses the importance of public health vigilance. “As we follow this case and closely monitor potential exposures, we strongly encourage all residents to protect their health, especially the most vulnerable, by ensuring they are fully vaccinated against measles and other preventable diseases,” stated Dr. Gregson Pigott, the Suffolk County Commissioner of Health Services.

Vaccination Recommendations

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the recommended schedule for the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine begins with the first dose administered between 12 and 15 months, followed by a second dose between ages 4 and 6, ideally before a child starts school. Alarmingly, only about 81% of children in New York have received their first dose of the vaccine by their second birthday, raising concerns about the community's overall immunity.

Incidents of Infection in New York City

In a troubling trend, two infants under 12 months in New York City have also contracted measles in unrelated incidents this year. Last year alone, New York City reported 14 cases of measles, emphasizing a rising public health challenge in the region.

Call to Action

As measles outbreaks grow more prevalent, community awareness and vaccination compliance are more crucial than ever. Parents are urged to check their children's vaccination records and consult healthcare providers to ensure they are up-to-date on all recommended immunizations. Stay informed, stay healthy, and protect the most vulnerable among us!