State Health Commissioner Mary T. Bassett has expressed concern about the polio epidemic in the Hudson Valley following confirmed cases in Rockland and the latest wastewater findings.
“Based on previous polio outbreaks, New Yorkers should know that for each observed case of paralytic polio, hundreds of people may be infected,” said the state health commissioner. Dr. Mary T. Bassett of . As we learn more, it becomes clear what we do know: the polio risk exists in new areas, where adults, including pregnant women, and young children up to two months of age are most at risk. We must face this moment by ensuring that we are vaccinated, the safe protection against this debilitating virus that every New Yorker needs.”
“It is worrisome that polio, a disease that has been largely eradicated by vaccination, is now rampant in our communities. Given that,” said Dr. Irina, Orange County Health Commissioner. Gelman said in the release: “I urge all unvaccinated Orange County residents to get vaccinated as soon as medically possible.”