Key facts
- New York has reported 108 measles cases through Oct. 3.
- 92 measles cases have been reported in New York since July 15.
Health Secretary Kennedy offers federal support to New York over measles outbreak
IN SHORT
U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. offered federal support to New York Governor Kathy Hochul as the state grapples with a measles outbreak. Kennedy connected Hochul with CDC Director Erica Schwartz, who is ready to assist with the response. New York declared a statewide disaster emergency earlier this week due to the highly contagious disease.
Key Numbers
108measles cases in New York through Oct. 3
92measles cases in New York since July 15
18counties affected by measles outbreak in New York
Who's Involved
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
U.S. Health Secretary who offered federal support to New York
Kathy Hochul
New York Governor who spoke with Kennedy about the measles outbreak
Erica Schwartz
CDC Director connected with Hochul to assist with outbreak response
↳ Why This Matters
The federal government's involvement in New York's measles outbreak highlights ongoing public health challenges and the role of federal agencies in supporting state-level responses to contagious diseases. It also underscores the politically charged nature of CDC assistance under Health Secretary Kennedy, who has previously questioned measles-related deaths.