Measles Alert: What Home Health Aides Need to Know

October 8, 2026

Important VNS Health Safety Communication

Dear Team,

Measles activity has increased in New York State. As of October 3, 2026, New York reported 108 confirmed measles cases. Home Health Aides (HHAs) play an important role by noticing possible symptoms and reporting concerns quickly.

Know the Signs

• Fever and a red, blotchy rash
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red or watery eyes
• Small white spots inside the mouth may occur before the rash

Also be alert if the patient recently traveled or had contact with someone who has a fever and rash or known/suspected measles.

What You Should Do

• Immediately notify your supervisor/manager if a patient has possible measles symptoms or reports a known measles exposure.
• Follow instructions from your supervisor and the clinical team.
• If you are instructed to enter the care area of a patient with known or suspected measles, use a fit-tested N95 respirator as directed.
• If you believe you were exposed to measles, notify your supervisor and contact Health Services promptly.

How Measles Spreads

Measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after the infected person leaves the area. A person with measles can spread the virus from 4 days before through 4 days after the rash begins.

Protect Yourself and Others

• Vaccination is the best protection against measles.
• Follow VNS Health infection prevention instructions and use required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• If you need N95 fit testing, contact Health Services at [email protected]
• If believe you were exposed, contact [email protected]

Remember: Recognize symptoms, avoid unnecessary exposure, and report concerns immediately.

For more information: New York State Measles Dashboard – https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/measles/data.htm

Catherine Schaefer
Vice President, Quality, Provider Services