NYC Sees First Measles Case of 2026 in Unvaccinated Infant

Health officials urge vaccination as outbreaks rise in other states

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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New York City has reported its first measles case of 2026, an unvaccinated infant who recently returned from overseas travel. The case comes as measles outbreaks have surged in other parts of the country, raising concerns among parents with upcoming travel plans during school breaks. Health officials are stressing the importance of vaccination to protect both individuals and the broader community.

Why it matters

Measles is a highly contagious virus that can linger in the air for hours, posing risks for unvaccinated travelers passing through crowded airports and other public spaces. While most measles cases are mild, the virus can be dangerous for young children and pregnant women, underscoring the need for high vaccination rates to prevent outbreaks.

The details

The infant patient in New York City had not been vaccinated against measles. Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse said privacy restrictions prevented her from releasing additional details about the child's age, location, or travel history. Last year, the city saw 20 measles cases, up from 14 in 2024. A major outbreak in 2018-2019 started with an unvaccinated child returning from Israel.

  • The infant's case was the first reported in New York City in 2026.
  • Last year, the city saw 20 measles cases, up from 14 in 2024.

The players

Dr. Michelle Morse

The New York City Health Commissioner.

Dr. Roy Gulick

The chief of infectious diseases at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine.

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What they’re saying

“It's a very real threat.”

— Dr. Roy Gulick, Chief of infectious diseases (nytimes.com)

“Getting vaccinated is not instantaneous protection, but it could avoid the illness.”

— Dr. Roy Gulick, Chief of infectious diseases (nytimes.com)

What’s next

The city's public school system will be closed next week for midwinter break, and some private schools will be closed on Monday for Presidents Day and on Tuesday for the beginning of the Lunar New Year, raising concerns about potential measles exposure during travel.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing need for high vaccination rates to protect vulnerable populations and prevent the spread of highly contagious diseases like measles, especially as travel increases during school breaks and holidays.