Measles Preparedness and Response

(October 20, 2026) As measles cases continue to be reported across the United States, healthcare providers and aging services organizations should remain vigilant and review their infection prevention and outbreak response plans. Measles is a highly contagious airborne disease that can spread rapidly in healthcare settings, making early identification, isolation, and reporting critical to limiting transmission.

LeadingAge National recently encouraged providers to monitor measles activity in their communities, coordinate with local public health agencies, and familiarize themselves with current CDC guidance. Providers should review resources such as Healthcare Providers: Stay Alert for Measles Cases and Measles Preparedness and Response in Healthcare Settings, which offer recommendations on recognition of symptoms, isolation procedures, exposure management, healthcare worker immunity, and outbreak preparedness.

Governor Cathy Hochul's Executive Order No. 65 declared a statewide disaster emergency in New York in response to increasing measles cases and expanded access to vaccination and testing. The Order temporarily authorizes additional healthcare professionals, including certain EMS personnel, pharmacists, midwives, registered nurses, physicians, and nurse practitioners, to support immunization and testing efforts. 

For long-term care providers and other healthcare organizations, the current increase in measles activity serves as a reminder to verify staff immunity status, reinforce isolation protocols, educate personnel on recognizing measles symptoms, and maintain close communication with local health departments. Vaccination remains the most effective strategy for preventing measles and protecting vulnerable populations from serious illness and complications.

Contact:  Carrie Mosley, cmosley@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8383 x. 147