As measles cases pop up in the counties neighboring Cleveland County, local officials are sounding the alarm on the potential risks, particularly for the most vulnerable among us: children under the age of 5. According to a recent Facebook post by the Cleveland County Government, measles spread like wildfire; infecting up to 90% of the people who are unvaccinated when exposed to a contagious individual.
But it doesn't have to be a foregone conclusion. "The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the best protection and provides safe, long-lasting protection against all strains of measles," the Cleveland County Government, explains. The county is urging those who have not received their shots, or who are uncertain about their vaccination status, to take action. The local health department has made getting the MMR vaccine a walk in the park, with no appointment necessary and convenient hours from Monday to Friday.
Getting vaccinated protects not just you, but your whole community from easily preventable diseases. The Cleveland County Health Department offers vaccines and access to vaccine records. The MMR vaccine has a long history of safety and effectiveness. For more information on measles and how to prevent it, visit the CDC website or call the health department directly.
