Confirmed case of measles in Manhattan, NYC DOH says
There's been a confirmed measles case in Manhattan, health officials said Tuesday.
"The NYC Health Department is responding to a measles case in Manhattan through its robust disease surveillance and reporting system, working to identify and notify people who may have been exposed," a New York City Department of Health spokesperson said. "The risk to the general public is low due to high vaccination coverage among New Yorkers and there have been no reports of secondary cases. This is a reminder of the importance of vaccination, which is the best protection against measles."
The person with measles in this most recent case was not vaccinated.
The DOH said the person visited Norma's Restaurant in Hell's Kitchen. The restaurant posted on social media that the person was inside on April 26 from 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
It's the fifth confirmed case of measles in the city so far this year. Officials say all of the cases have been related to international travel. Last year, there were 20 measles cases citywide.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that is typically spread through sneezes and coughs. The virus can remain in the air up to two hours. The World Health Organization said measles symptoms include a rash that starts on the face and spreads all over the body.
New York City Dr. Tim Tiutan recently posted an explainer on social media saying that two MMR vaccines can prevent more than 97% of cases.
"Of course, herd immunity and getting vaccinated is super, super important," he said. "We always take into account the person's risk profile, people who have chronic diseases, who have depressed immune systems."
The health department said the risk to the general public in New York City is low due to high vaccination coverage. However, cases are increasing worldwide as vaccinations have decreased.
The New York City Health Department advises children receive their first dose of the vaccine at 12 months and their second dose between ages 4-6.
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