Health officials urge vaccination following measles cases in Western New York

Health officials in Western New York and neighboring states are urging residents to verify their vaccination status following a rise in measles cases. In Steuben County, the confirmed case count has reached four, with the two most recent infections involving unvaccinated residents. One case was linked to previous contact, while the other had no known connection to earlier infections.

In Chautauqua County, officials are emphasizing the importance of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, noting that two doses provide approximately 97% protection. The health department warned that the virus is highly contagious and can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left an area.

Health departments are advising individuals to monitor for symptoms such as high fever, coughing, runny nose, and a red, blotchy rash. Those who believe they have been exposed are advised to monitor themselves for 21 days. While the overall risk to the general public is considered low, particularly for the vaccinated, unvaccinated individuals, infants, pregnant women, and the immunocompromised face higher risks of serious complications.