
Measles Cases Surge to Record High: NYC Issues Urgent Vaccination Call
2025-07-15
Author: Chun
In an alarming public health scenario, measles cases across the U.S. have skyrocketed to a staggering 33-year high, sending shockwaves through New York City, despite the city not experiencing any outbreaks so far this year.
As of early July, NYC has recorded seven isolated measles cases this year, with a total of 14 cases reported statewide—a concerning trend reflecting similar figures from last year.
"It's normal to see sporadic cases in a global hub like NYC," stated health department spokesperson Chantal Gomez. However, she stressed the critical importance of maintaining high vaccination rates, especially since outbreaks can erupt in communities with low vaccine uptake.
In response to this escalating situation, New Yorkers are being strongly urged to ensure that both they and their children are fully vaccinated against measles, particularly ahead of travel to areas experiencing outbreaks.
Senator Chuck Schumer has raised the stakes significantly, calling on Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to declare a national public health emergency over the measles crisis. Schumer's letter criticized the current administration for not providing adequate resources to combat the outbreak, suggesting that policies enacted could inadvertently worsen the situation.
He expressed deep concerns about Kennedy’s approach to vaccine promotion, claiming it undermines critical public health initiatives. "Your actions threaten the safety of Americans by disregarding scientific consensus on vaccination," Schumer asserted.
According to the CDC, a staggering 1,288 confirmed measles cases have been reported nationwide in 2025 alone, eclipsing the previous spikes, especially those linked to outbreaks within Orthodox Jewish communities in NYC during 2019.
The majority of this year’s cases have emerged from regions known for prior outbreaks, particularly in Texas, New Mexico, and Kansas.
Emily Hilliard from the Department of Health and Human Services responded by acknowledging the ongoing efforts to assist impacted communities, noting that the U.S. is experiencing a relatively lower rate of infection compared to nations like Canada and several European countries.
While emphasizing the pivotal role of vaccination in fighting the measles, Hilliard echoed Kennedy’s sentiment that the decision to vaccinate should ultimately be a personal choice, urging individuals to consult healthcare providers to weigh their options.
Meanwhile, New York Governor Kathy Hochul and state health authorities have voiced deep concerns regarding children missing their routine measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations, emphasizing the necessity of timely immunization to prevent further cases.