New York and Pennsylvania expand measles vaccination authorization due to outbreaks

The state also expanded the number of health professionals authorized to administer measles, mumps and rubella vaccines due to the increase in cases in rural communities.

New York has reported 108 measles cases this year through Oct. 3 -- 92 of them from July 15 to early October -- in rural communities with low vaccination coverage in 18 counties, well above typical annual levels, according to the governor's order.

Neighboring Pennsylvania is facing a fast-spreading outbreak, with 977 cases and five deaths as of Oct. 2, mostly in rural counties bordering New York, according to the order.

The decree allows registered nurses to request tests for suspected measles and pharmacists to vaccinate children from two years of age. It also requires that all measles, mumps and rubella vaccinations be registered with the state or New York City immunization systems within 72 hours, waiving adult consent for such communication.