09/01/2026
⚠️ MEASLES AWARENESS: What Schoharie County Residents Should Know ⚠️
Measles cases have been confirmed in nearby counties, including neighboring Otsego County. The confirmed cases involved people who were not vaccinated.
There are currently no confirmed cases in Schoharie County. Because measles spreads very easily, the Schoharie County Department of Health is closely monitoring the situation, staying informed, and will notify the public as more information becomes available.
🔎 KNOW THE FACTS
Measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain in the air for up to 2 hours after the person leaves.
Symptoms may appear 7–21 days after exposure. A person can spread measles 4 days before and 4 days after the rash appears, before they know they are sick.
Measles can cause pneumonia, brain swelling, hospitalization, and death.
💉 Vaccination is the best protection.
The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. Two recommended doses protect most people and help protect babies too young to be routinely vaccinated and people who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.
📆 Recommended MMR schedule:
Infants 6-11 months: An early dose may be recommended during an outbreak or before international travel. It does not replace the 2 routine doses after age 1.
Children: First dose at 12-15 months; second dose at 4-6 years. The second dose may be given earlier if it is at least 28 days after the first.
Older children and teens: Anyone without 2 doses should get caught up, with doses at least 28 days apart.
Adults: Healthcare workers, international travelers, college students and people exposed during an outbreak may need vaccination. Talk with a healthcare provider about whether you need 1 or 2 doses.
Pregnant people and people with certain immune conditions: MMR is generally not recommended. Talk with a healthcare provider about vaccination options.
If you may have been exposed and are not fully vaccinated, contact your healthcare provider or local health department as soon as possible. An MMR dose within 72 hours may prevent measles or reduce its severity. Immune globulin may be recommended within 6 days, especially for infants, pregnant people and those with weakened immune systems. Do not wait for symptoms.
Check your vaccination records now. If you think you were exposed or have symptoms, call your healthcare provider before going in to help protect others.
Stay informed and stay protected. Learn more here:
https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/measles/