New York Health Officials have confirmed a case of measles in a child from Suffolk County, raising concerns of potential exposure at a hospital in New Hyde Park. This marks the third case of the highly contagious disease in the state this year. The child was being treated at Cohen Children’s Medical Center, although it is unclear if they are still hospitalized, their place of residence, or how they may have contracted the virus.
Individuals who visited the hospital’s pediatric emergency department between March 3 and 4, or were in contact with an inpatient child on the Medicine 3 unit between March 3 and 6 may have been exposed. The New York State Health Department is actively investigating potential other exposures as the situation unfolds.
State health officials revealed that the child had recently traveled outside of the U.S. and was under the age of 5. Since the child was unvaccinated, there is a concern for further infections. Measles can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia and brain inflammation, often requiring hospitalization.
Cohen Children’s Medical Center is collaborating with health authorities to prevent additional cases. Dr. James McDonald, New York State Health Commissioner, emphasized the importance of immunization to protect against measles, highlighting the severity of the disease and its potential impact on the immune system.
Measles, which can be transmitted through coughing or sneezing, presents symptoms like high fever, cough, and red eyes followed by a distinctive red rash. Vaccination is crucial, with one dose providing about 93% protection and a second dose increasing it to 97%. Although rare, breakthrough infections can occur in vaccinated individuals, typically resulting in a milder form of the disease.
The resurgence of measles in various states has raised significant concerns among health professionals. In the early 2000s, measles was nearly eradicated, but recent outbreaks have posed challenges, especially for young children at high risk of complications. Before the measles vaccine was introduced in 1963, the disease caused millions of infections, hundreds of fatalities, and tens of thousands of hospitalizations annually.
The current case underscores the importance of vaccination and public health measures to control the spread of measles. Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and urge individuals to ensure they are immunized to prevent further outbreaks.