Key Takeaway:
- Three children at Golisano Children’s Hospital measles are being treated for measles.
- Rochester has recorded three measles exposures in 2026, with cases reaching their highest level since 1991.
- Monroe County health officials urge residents to check vaccination records and contact doctors before seeking care if exposed or symptomatic.
Three children are being treated for measles at Golisano Children’s Hospital as Rochester health officials urge residents to check vaccinations amid rising cases nationwide.
Health Officials Track More Measles Cases
Rochester has recorded three separate measles exposures this year, including Golisano Children’s Hospital measles cases, while health care officials have reported more measles cases in 2026 than in any year since 1991.
Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, but health experts say cases are returning in small numbers as vaccination rates decline.
“I’m simply disappointed,” said Dr. Michael Apostolakos, chief medical officer of Strong Memorial and Highland hospitals, referring to the return of measles.
Dr. Marielena Vlez de Brown, Monroe County commissioner of public health, said the county is not currently experiencing measles transmission.
“If more and more people refuse or delay vaccination, we are going to see more and more cases,” Vlez de Brown said.
Doctors Urge Residents To Check Vaccination Records
Health officials are encouraging residents to review their vaccination records and make sure they and their families are up to date based on their doctors’ recommendations.
The measles vaccine is about 98% effective at preventing the disease, according to the information provided by health officials.
About 86% of Monroe County residents are vaccinated against measles, according to local health officials. Experts warn that lower vaccination coverage can make it easier for the highly contagious disease to spread.
The current cases also add pressure to a regional health care system that already has limited hospital capacity.
Limited Hospital Beds Raise Health Care Concerns
Apostolakos said the Finger Lakes region has fewer hospital beds per capita than the national average, with about 1.6 beds available for every 1,000 people.
About one in five people who contract measles will require hospital treatment, according to health officials. The combination of measles cases and limited hospital capacity could create additional strain if infections increase.
Health officials are advising anyone who believes they have been exposed to measles or develops symptoms to contact a primary care doctor before going to a hospital or urgent care center.
Calling ahead allows medical staff to take precautions to protect health care workers and other patients from potential exposure.
Officials at Golisano Children’s Hospital measles continue to emphasize vaccination as the primary way to prevent measles and reduce the risk of additional cases in the Rochester area.
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