New York City declares public health emergency following measles outbreak

Are Alicia Keys and Jay Z calling your name? Are you drawn to the bright lights of Times Square? Is your mouth watering for that NYC pizza (shout out Prince Street Pizza)? Is the Friends theme song stuck in your head?

As you’re planning out your trip New York City, a new announcement make impact your travel plans.

On April 9, New York City declared a public health emergency following a measles outbreak in Brooklyn.

See also:

• 24 epic things to do in New York City that will make you book a flight ASAP
• 27 awesome places to eat in New York City
• 33 diverse places to grab a drink (or five) in New York City
• A local’s guide to New York City neighbourhoods
• Top Instagram accounts to follow for all the New York City inspiration

According to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Commissioner, there is an active outbreak of measles among people residing in the neighbourhood of Williamsburg living within select zip codes. Since September 2018, more than 250 cases of measles have been documented among people living in the neighbourhood, and that number continues to grow as new cases are still occurring.

It is one of the largest measles outbreaks in decades.

The viral disease is highly contagious and can result in serious health complications, and in some cases death.

The city is requiring unvaccinated individuals living, working, or residing in the zip codes 11205, 11206, 11221 and/or 11237 to receive the Measles-Mumps-Rubella vaccine, unless the person can demonstrate that they have immunity to the disease or is medically exempt.