Two adults living at a New York City migrant shelter in Brooklyn have been diagnosed with measles, bringing the total number of cases in the city to 11 this year. The infected individuals were staying at the Hall Street shelter, and health officials are assessing vaccination documentation for those who may have been exposed. Anyone who is not immune will be required to quarantine for 21 days.
Measles is a highly contagious airborne disease that spreads through coughing or sneezing and can linger in a room for up to two hours after an infected person has left. Symptoms, which typically appear within seven to 14 days of contact with the virus, include high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and rash.
The Hall Street migrant shelter is one of several large-scale facilities in the neighborhood that have been a point of contention for Clinton Hill residents. Concerns over trash, noise, and street homelessness under the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway have added to tensions surrounding the measles cases.
Despite most New Yorkers being vaccinated against measles, health officials are urging those who may have been exposed to get tested for immunity. The risk of contracting measles is low for those who are vaccinated, but it can lead to serious health complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis if left untreated.
The city has seen a surge in measles cases this year compared to just one case in 2023. The most recent outbreak caused 605 infections in 2019.
Health officials are urging anyone who is not vaccinated against measles to contact their healthcare provider and get vaccinated as soon as possible. Vaccination is the best way to prevent measles and protect both individuals and communities from its spread.
