Medical professionals in the Hudson Valley are on high alert in response to a measles case being confirmed in Rockland County.

Officials with the county said the case was confirmed in a Rockland County resident after returning home from traveling a week prior, where a potential exposure had occurred.

Known contacts are being traced and evaluated for immunity, according to the county.

"It's definitely a concern it's getting closer to home. We have had cases in the city as well as cases in Orange County so far this year, so we're sort of surrounded by it," says Dr. Sheila Nolan, chief of pediatric infectious diseases with Maria Fareri Children's Hospital and Westchester Medical Center.

This is the first confirmed case in Rockland County since 2019. There was an outbreak in the county between 2018 and 2019, when more than 300 cases were confirmed.

“The single best way to prevent measles is to be vaccinated. We strongly encourage residents to protect themselves, their families, and all residents of our county by making sure you and your family are up to date on your MMR vaccinations,” said Dr. Mary Leahy, Rockland County commissioner of health.

Free measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccines are available for residents six months and older by calling the Rockland County Department of Health at 845-364-2497 or 845-364-2520.

You can read more details here