The New York State Department of Health has issued a warning about potential measles exposure at two emergency departments in the Capital Region. The alert comes after an adult Vermont resident with recent international travel was confirmed to have measles following visits to Albany Medical Center and Saratoga Hospital.
Individuals who were present in the Saratoga Hospital emergency department on July 14, 2025, are advised to contact the hospital directly, where staff are available around the clock. Those who may have been exposed at Albany Medical Center’s emergency department on July 16, 2025, have already been contacted by hospital staff.
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald stated, “Measles remains a threat to public health and exposure during travel is something we need to consider. It’s important that New Yorkers ensure they are immunized against measles. Protect yourself and your family against measles and make sure you are up-to-date on immunization with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.”
The Department of Health is working closely with both hospitals as part of its investigation and prevention efforts. Saratoga Hospital has implemented a mask requirement for all patients and visitors in its emergency room as an added infection control measure.
Dr. Jason Mouzakes, Executive Vice President and Hospital General Director at Albany Medical Center, said, “As the region’s only academic medical center and Level 1 Trauma Center, our Emergency Department is fully prepared for serious illnesses that may present at our doors. Our team acted immediately and appropriately to minimize exposure. We are working with the Department of Health and have notified those potentially exposed, offering vaccinations. The patient arrived masked and was immediately isolated at the hospital. The Department of Health was notified, per protocol, and we are continuing to monitor the situation.”
Officials encourage all residents to confirm their vaccination status for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), particularly before traveling abroad or to areas experiencing outbreaks in the United States. Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease that can cause rash and fever; complications can include pneumonia or other serious health problems.
The MMR vaccine remains the best protection against measles infection; one dose offers significant protection but two doses increase effectiveness further. Babies as young as six months should receive one dose before international travel; subsequent doses should follow recommended schedules.
Those unsure of their vaccination history should check their records or consult healthcare providers for guidance. People born before 1957 likely have natural immunity due to prior exposure but those vaccinated between 1963-1967 should discuss revaccination with their provider.
Measles spreads through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing or by touching contaminated surfaces followed by contact with facial mucous membranes. A person with measles can transmit it starting four days before until four days after developing a rash; symptoms generally appear within seven to twenty-one days after infection.
Healthcare providers are reminded to report suspected cases promptly to local health authorities. Additional resources about measles symptoms, prevention strategies, immunization data, provider information, and vaccine details are available through dedicated state health websites.
