Mineola, NY – The Nassau County Department of Health (NCDOH) was notified of a laboratory confirmed case of measles in an unvaccinated child on March 22, 2024. NCDOH, in collaboration with the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), has concluded its investigation of the case, which included identifying and notifying contacts. At this time, there have been no additional cases of measles in Nassau County.
“Although the investigation of the case has ended, we continue our daily work to monitor our communities for the presence of measles and over 80 other reportable diseases,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Irina Gelman. “Measles is a highly contagious disease and is preventable through safe and effective vaccination.”
The NYSDOH reported rate for children with one dose of MMR by age 2 is nearly 81% for Nassau County, as compared to the state average of 79.4% (data as of January 1, 2024). Nassau County school survey data from the academic year 2022-2023 indicates a vaccination rate exceeding 99% for K-12 students. Herd immunity for measles requires 95% vaccination rate. Cases of measles are on the rise statewide, nationally, and globally, which indicates a need for adherence to ACIP recommended vaccine schedules to ensure timely, adequate, and age-appropriate vaccination.
To safeguard the health of our community from vaccine preventable disease, NCDOH conducts in-person visits and follow up meetings with healthcare professionals who have low immunization rates, who provide care in areas with lower vaccination rates, or who have staffing needs that require additional attention. Furthermore, the Department urges pediatricians, school districts, and daycare providers to remain vigilant about vaccination rates. Wastewater monitoring continues to be a priority as a means of early detection and notification of circulating communicable diseases. Public campaigns are ongoing to improve vaccine uptake and educate individuals on the importance of life saving immunizations. “Now more than ever, these messages need to reach our community,” according to Commissioner Gelman.
The measles vaccine has been proven to be safe and is the most effective way to prevent measles. For additional information about measles, visit the NYSDOH’s website here. Information about the measles vaccine can be found here.
NCDOH has previously issued two press releases, which can be found here and here.