Ulster officials urge vaccinations against measles
Ulster County officials are urging residents to check up on their vaccinations as cases of measles, a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus that can lead to severe illness and even death, is on the rise across the country.
In 2024, there were 285 measles cases reported in the United States. In 2025 so far, more than 164 measles cases have been reported in nine states, including two cases in New York City as well as cases in New Jersey, Rhode Island, Alaska, California, Georgia, New Mexico, Texas and Kentucky.
More than 80-percent of cases are among youth under the age of 20, with 30-percent of cases among children under five. One unvaccinated child in Texas died last month from complications of measles.
With the rise of cases and only 57-percent of certain populations in Ulster County completing the vaccination cycle to combat measles, county officials are now urging residents to make sure they are up to date on their vaccines.
“Measles is a preventable disease and the best way to protect yourself and children from measles is to be fully vaccinated,” said Dr. Gina Carena, Ulster County Department of Health Medical Director. “While there are occasionally unsubstantiated claims about vaccine safety, it is important to understand that every ingredient in these vaccines is important to assure the vaccine is safe and effective and, in many cases, the ingredients are in doses lower than those we are naturally exposed to in our environment. We urge everyone to take the necessary steps to protect themselves and their community by getting vaccinated."
Early symptoms of measles infections include high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A telltale rash follows showing up as flat, red spots on the face and spreading down the neck and trunk to the rest of the body. A person is contagious about four days before the rash appears to four days after. People who could have measles should stay home during that period.
The Ulster County Department of Health provides vaccines free of charge for residents who lack insurance coverage. For more information, contact the Ulster County Department of Health at 845-340-3070.
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