New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency over the spread of measles and signed an executive order expanding the range of professionals authorized to administer vaccinations, infohub.kz reports.
According to a statement published on the state government's website, the list of professionals permitted to vaccinate now includes paramedics, advanced emergency medical technicians, pharmacists, and midwives. In addition, nurses are now allowed to order measles testing alongside physicians.
"After reviewing the latest data on measles cases in New York State, I am declaring a state of emergency to bolster our ongoing efforts to combat this disease," Hochul said.
The state has recorded 108 confirmed cases: seven in New York City and 101 in the rest of the state.
Health Department Commissioner James McDonald urged residents to check their vaccination status.
"The measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine is the best protection — it protects nearly everyone who receives the recommended doses from the disease," he said.
Measles is a highly contagious disease. Its main symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a subsequent rash.