New York City health officials are raising alarms after two residents tested positive for measles, sparking concerns about potential exposure in Manhattan. However, they reassure the public that the overall risk remains extremely low.

The confirmed cases, located in the Lower East Side and SoHo neighborhoods, have prompted health department outreach to local businesses to encourage vaccination and testing among those who may have crossed paths with the infected individuals.

This development arrives at a tumultuous time, as Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. pushes controversial policies that could limit vaccine access, including for measles. Despite this, city health officials affirm that New York boasts a high vaccination rate, with herd immunity effectively established across all five boroughs.

Chantal Gomez from the health department urges parents to ensure their children receive vaccinations, particularly after their first birthday, despite the shifting national guidelines under the Trump administration. Current statistics reveal that 93% of New York City's 2-year-olds are vaccinated against measles, and an impressive 98% of kindergartners are also protected.

Epidemiologist Denis Nash from CUNY emphasizes the significance of maintaining high vaccination rates. He expressed serious concerns about misinformation regarding vaccines, suggesting it could confuse and mislead the public on the critical need for routine vaccinations to safeguard children and the community.

Earlier this year, Kennedy made headlines by dismissing members of a key CDC committee managing vaccine policy in the U.S., igniting backlash from health experts nationwide.

The last significant measles outbreak in NYC occurred in 2019, primarily within Orthodox Jewish communities in Brooklyn, prompting a public health emergency declaration by former Mayor Bill de Blasio.

Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine voiced his concerns regarding Kennedy's stance on vaccines, highlighting the importance of restoring public confidence in vaccination amidst ongoing doubts generated by federal officials.

Additionally, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has taken steps to expand COVID vaccine access, allowing pharmacists to administer boosters, following concerns over funding for mRNA vaccines being cut. Hochul criticized federal leadership, stating, "If only we had leadership in Washington that valued life the way we do."