In response to a confirmed case of measles in neighboring Orange County, the Sullivan County Department of Public Health has issued a regional health advisory, urging vigilance among medical providers, summer camps, and the general public.
There are three confirmed cases of measles in Orange County, according to Dr. Jessie Moore, Sullivan County’s Public Health Director.
“What we are seeing is that it is in young children, and the ones that have been identified so far were international travel,” explained Moore at the May 8 Sullivan County Health & Human Services Committee meeting.
The identified children were under the age of one years old and therefore too young to be eligible for a measles vaccination.
“Measles is one of the most contagious viruses known and can cause serious illness, especially in children and people with weakened immune systems,” said Moore. “While there are no current cases in Sullivan County, the recent confirmation in a nearby community warrants precautionary action.”
Moore said that the county’s health department is in contact with the New York State Department of Health and that the county has put in an order for measles testing kits for local healthcare providers.
For Healthcare Providers
- Symptom Awareness: Be alert to signs including high fever, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis (red eyes), and a characteristic rash, which typically appear 7 to 14 days post-exposure.
- Isolation Protocols: Implement standard infection control measures immediately upon identifying a suspected case.
- Mandatory Reporting: Suspected cases must be reported promptly to Sullivan County Public Health at 845-292-5910. This line is available 24/7, including after hours.
- Testing Supplies: The county has requested measles testing kits from the Division of Vaccine Excellence. Once available, these will be distributed to local providers. Testing will not occur on-site at Public Health Services.
For Summer Camps
- Vaccine Compliance: All campers and staff should be up to date on the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, in accordance with New York State law.
- Pre-Arrival Screenings: Camps should conduct thorough health assessments prior to arrival.
- Educational Outreach: Ensure campers, staff, and families are informed about measles symptoms and the importance of immunization.
For the Public
- Verify Immunity: Individuals unsure of their measles immunity should consult their provider about a simple blood test (IgG titer) to confirm protection.
- Vaccine Guidelines: Those born after 1957 should have received two documented doses of the MMR vaccine or have a positive titer. Those lacking immunity are advised to get vaccinated.
- Protect At-Risk Individuals: Infants, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals are especially vulnerable to severe outcomes. Community immunity is vital to their safety.
General Prevention
- Vaccination: Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles.
- Hygiene: Frequent handwashing and avoiding contact with sick individuals remain key defenses.
- Stay Updated: Follow health department updates, especially if traveling or attending large events.
“Our department remains committed to safeguarding the health of Sullivan County residents,” Dr. Moore emphasized. “We will continue to monitor the situation and share updates as needed.”
For additional guidance and resources, visit www.sullivanny.gov/Departments/Publichealth or call Public Health at 845-292-5910.
This story was updated on May 8, 2025 with information on the cases.