COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – In light of four new and three potential cases of measles being reported in Oakland County, the Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency is urging all residents to get the measles vaccinations if they have not done so.
Parents are also encouraged to protect their children from other diseases through vaccination and can check on their children’s vaccine status by contacting the local health department office.
Measles is a vaccine-preventable respiratory infection that can result in hospitalization, pneumonia, encephalitis and death. The illness begins with a high fever, red eyes, cough, runny nose, and is followed by a red, raised body rash.
Adults born after December 31, 1956, that do not have evidence of immunity, should receive at least one dose of MMR vaccine. The first of two routine childhood measles vaccine doses is given at 12 months of age. A second vaccine dose is given before the start of kindergarten.
Children and adults can get vaccinations at any of the Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency offices. To schedule an appointment and for immunization questions, give your local office a call.
