Measles Exposure Alert at Rochester Train Station: What Monroe County Residents Need to Know

The Monroe County Department of Public Health issued a community alert on September 3 about a potential measles exposure at the Rochester train station — the Louise M. Slaughter station on Central Avenue. A traveler who later tested positive for measles passed through on Saturday, August 29, 2026. If you were there that day, here is what health officials are recommending.

What Happened at the Rochester Train Station

What Happened at the Rochester Train Station

A person who tested positive for measles passed through the Louise M. Slaughter Rochester Train Station on Saturday, August 29, 2026. The individual was not a Monroe County resident and was traveling through to another destination. Monroe County Department of Public Health issued the alert on September 3.

Health officials describe the overall risk as low. Most Monroe County residents are protected through vaccination or prior infection — the concern is specifically for unvaccinated people who were at the station that day.

If You Were at the Station on August 29

If You Were at the Station on August 29

Anyone who entered the station on August 29 should monitor for symptoms through Saturday, September 19, 2026. According to WXXI News, measles symptoms appear 10 to 12 days after exposure — early signs are fever, runny nose, cough, and red eyes, followed by a rash.

Measles is a highly infectious respiratory disease, which is why a single traveler at a transit hub triggers a public health alert. If you develop symptoms and were at the station on August 29, call your doctor before going in so the office can prepare for your arrival. Monroe County residents with questions can reach the Department of Public Health at (585) 753-5555.

Measles Is Spreading Across the Region

Measles Is Spreading Across the Region

The Rochester exposure is not happening in isolation. State health officials have confirmed 43 measles cases across New York in 2026, with cases in Steuben (8), Seneca, Ontario, and Yates counties. Seneca County's five confirmed cases — two of which resulted in hospitalization — have met the state's outbreak definition.

Across the affected counties, transmission has been concentrated among unvaccinated individuals.

Vaccination Remains the Most Reliable Protection

Vaccination Remains the Most Reliable Protection

Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles. If you are uncertain whether you received both doses, this is a reasonable time to check your immunization records.

The overall risk is low for people who are fully vaccinated or were born before 1957. For everyone else, Monroe County's health department can help — call (585) 753-5555.