Gov. Hochul issues measles-related 'state emergency disaster'
Gov. Hochul has issued an executive order declaring a state disaster emergency as measles cases continue to climb.
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There have been at least 109 confirmed measles cases in New York state in 2026, according to a statewide measles tracker.
As News 12 previously reported, Nassau health officials announced in May the first confirmed case in the county in two years after an unvaccinated child under age 5 was diagnosed.
News 12 spoke with Dr. Danielle Fisenne, a general pediatrician at Pediatric Health Associates in Plainview.
She said, "Measles is one of the most contagious diseases that we have. It spreads through the air."
There are three major signs, according to Dr. Fisenne: a cough, red eyes or "conjunctivitis" and a stuffy nose.
"Measles is famous for its rash and high fevers, so if your child is experiencing any of those symptoms or you have any concerns, it's super important to make sure they get checked out by their doctor," says Dr. Fisenne.
Dr. Fisenne said if you contract measles, there is no treatment for it.
"Once you have it, there's really not much we can do other than supportive care, keep you hydrated with some IV fluids, but it is limited in what we can do...it is very dangerous once you get the measles," says Dr. Fisenne.
"Vaccines are essential," Dr. Fisenne said. "They'll protect your family, they'll protect your children, your kids are as important to us as they are to you. We want to see them grow up, succeed, be healthy and protect them from measles."
