State of emergency declared in New York as measle cases rise

A state of emergency has been declared in New York in response to a growing number of measles cases. More than 100 cases of the disease have been recorded in New York state so far this year, while local health departments have administered over 1,000 doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, according to state's Department of Health. On Monday, New York governor Kathy Hochul issued a "state disaster emergency" in an attempt to "strengthen our ongoing efforts to confront this disease".Ms Hochul also announced that the number of health professionals permitted to test and administer the vaccine would be increased to include paramedics, pharmacists and midwives, with nurses allowed to order testing in addition to doctors."These emergency measures will protect New Yorkers and support our community partners as they work tirelessly to address the spread of this disease," Ms Hochul added. Explainer: What are the symptoms of measles? Image: New York State governor Kathy Hochul issued a 'State Disaster Emergency'. File pic: Reuters Vaccine the 'best protection' New York state Department of Health commissioner Dr James McDonald said his staff were working closely with local heal...