Health Department Encourages MMR Vaccines
As measles outbreaks continue in the United States and with Illinois now reporting an outbreak in Douglas County, the McDonough County Health Department (MCHD) is encouraging area residents to be sure that they're up-to-date on the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine.
According to Niki Duffy, health department emergency response coordinator and public information officer, the most recent update available regarding the ongoing measles situation in the United States lists 2,903 confirmed cases – up over 800 cases from July – reported in 47 states – an increase of 16 states since July –with 37 outbreaks. Duffy noted that 66 percent of the cases (nearly 1,900) of all measles cases have been in individuals 19 years of age or younger.
'Measles is one of the most highly transmissible viruses in the world. It can be spread via airborne transmission with airborne droplets being active and floating in the air for hours after the infected person has left the room,' she pointed out. 'Nine out of every 10 people who are exposed to the measles virus will become infected if they are not immune. A person with measles can spread the virus to others up to four full days before the rash develops.'
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has confirmed four linked cases of measles identified in Douglas County. Nearly 20,000 residents live in the east-central Illinois county. The IDPH is working with area health departments and providers to offer immunizations, identify exposure locations and provide guidance for exposed persons 'Vaccines remain one of the safest and most effective ways to protect individuals, families and the community from preventable diseases,” Chris Adams, director of the MCHD, stressed. 'While most people who receive the MMR vaccine are protected for life, some adults — including those without vaccination records or evidence of immunity — may need an additional dose. Anyone unsure of their vaccination status should consult their primary care provider to determine whether another MMR vaccination is recommended.”
According to a recent IDPH release, Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, but it has seen a resurgence in recent years as national immunization rates have dropped. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is administered in two doses. The first is usually given around one year of age and the second between four and six years of age, usually before the child starts school, but can be given as soon as 28 days after the first dose. A single dose is 93 percent effective in preventing measles, while the twodose regimen is 97 percent effective.
Guidelines regarding vaccinations and immunizations can be found at the Centers for Disease Control at cdc.gov/ vaccines. Vaccine schedules and additional information are also provided on the CDC site.
The McDonough County Health Department offers vaccines, which can be billed to insurance and/or provided at minimal cost for those without insurance. Call (309) 8379951 to schedule an appointment.
“Vaccine research, oversight and administration are backed by years of scientific study focused on improving health outcomes and preventing disease and death,” Duffy added. “Vaccines undergo rigorous testing before approval, and their safety continues to be monitored after they reach the public.”
