Can Albany take action against measles?

Most states allow for religious or personal exemptions to vaccinations, but Governor Cuomo has shifted his stance, saying that the seriousness of this “public health crisis” should override such exceptions.

Still, state lawmakers have resisted passing a bill that would eliminate the exemptions. “The lawmakers’ reluctance seems to stem from concern about angering ultra-Orthodox and other religious constituents who have often wielded political influence,” wrote my colleague Jesse McKinley.

[Why a bid to end religious exemptions for vaccines has stalled.]

State health officials now recommend measles-mumps-rubella vaccinations for children as early as 6 months old in outbreak areas. (The timetable from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the first dose of M.M.R. vaccine at 12 months to 15 months of age.)

I live near an outbreak. Do I need to get vaccinated?

Mostly, those who contract measles are children in schools, religious groups or other organizations with low immunization rates. Children younger than 5 account for about half of the more than 700 measles cases in the country.

Most adults in the United States are immune to measles. If you think you might be at risk for the disease, visit a doctor. For many people, there is no downside to getting a booster shot.

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