Rockland ranks among lowest MMR Vaccination rate in NY

Rockland County has one of the lowest Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccination rates in the state.

The State Department of Health calculates MMR vaccination rates based on data of children ages 24-35 months that received one MMR immunization before their second birthday.  In January 2024, the overall county MMR rate for that cohort was 54.4 percent; it rose to 62 percent as of January 2025.

County officials say while those rates are still low, massive efforts have occurred and continue to be implemented to bring MMR vaccination rates higher.

The county health department is concentrating its efforts to raise vaccination rates by auditing school compliance, operating immunization clinics, sending reminder/recall letters, and working with local providers.

The county said auditing schools for compliance with vaccine mandates is a high priority, especially after the case of polio in 2022. In 2024, the department audited 39 schools and 23 daycares. Efforts are continuing in 2025 with approximately two schools per week receiving an audit. The State Department of Health also performs audits statewide.

The county department immunization clinic in Spring Valley increased the number of days and the hours the clinic operates. Anyone who reaches out for an MMR vaccine is given an immediate appointment.

Summer camp commissioner orders have required full immunization for camp attendees since 2022.

“We strongly encourage residents to protect themselves, their families, and all residents of our county by taking proactive measures to prevent another measles outbreak in Rockland. Staff at the Health Department are available to host educational presentations for interested community groups and assist with immunizations efforts. We are working tirelessly to reach vulnerable communities and are committed to mitigating the risk to Rockland residents,” said County Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Leahy.

Measles is one of the most contagious viruses on earth, with 90 percent of unvaccinated people exposed to the virus becoming infected. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes and can even be contracted just by being in a room where a person with measles has been, up to two hours after that person has left. Symptoms include a fever, rash, cough, conjunctivitis (red, watery eyes), or runny nose.

Measles can be severe in all age groups; however, several groups are more likely to suffer from measles complications, including children younger than five years of age, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. Complications of measles include pneumonia, encephalitis, miscarriage, preterm birth, hospitalization, and death.