Public Health urges residents to stay current with measles vaccines as cases rise globally

The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health (SBCDPH) is urging residents to protect themselves by staying current with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine as measles are on the rise. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 58 measles cases nationally from Jan. 1 to March 14, 2024. Ninety-three percent of these cases have been linked to international travel.

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Measles typically begins with fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes and within a few days a red, blotchy rash appears, usually first appearing on the face and spreading downward to the rest of the body. People can be contagious with measles four days before the onset of rash and four days after.

“Vaccines are our best defense against infectious diseases, protecting both individuals and the wider community,” said San Bernardino County Health Officer Dr. Michael Sequeira. “Our vaccination levels have dipped, and we are seeing sporadic cases of measles emerge again. Staying healthy and staying up to date with vaccinations is a key step in safeguarding public health and saving lives.”

The CDC recommends that individuals get vaccinated with the MMR vaccine to protect themselves. Individuals older than six months of age without evidence of immunity, who are planning to travel internationally, should receive the MMR vaccine prior to departure. Children should get two doses of MMR vaccines, starting with the first dose at 12 to 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 through 6 years of age. Teens and adults should also be up to date on their MMR vaccination. More information on vaccinations for measles can be found by visiting CDC MMR.

If you have symptoms and believe you may have been exposed, please contact your healthcare provider immediately. Before visiting a healthcare facility, call ahead so that measures can be taken to prevent the spread of measles.

To support vaccination efforts, SBCDPH has partnered with schools and organizations throughout the county by providing free immunization events to eligible school-aged children. More information on school-based vaccine services in the county can be found by visiting the School-based Vaccine Services page.

If you do not have a primary care physician, please visit one of our county health centers. To schedule an appointment for immunizations, call (800) 722-4777 or visit dph.sbcounty.gov/programs/clinics. To learn more about measles, visit the CDC’s measles website.

Additional County Update News – March 21, 2024