Lansing, Mich. — The Ingham County Health Department is scheduled to host an MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine clinic next Tuesday, offering local residents an opportunity to get vaccinated against these highly contagious diseases.
The clinic will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the health department’s office located at 5303 S. Cedar St., on the second floor of the building. The event aims to ensure that the community remains protected, especially amid rising concerns about the spread of measles.
Measles, which is particularly contagious and can spread through both direct person-to-person contact and airborne transmission, has been a growing concern in various parts of the country. Health experts note that the virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person coughs or sneezes, further heightening the risks for those in proximity.
Individuals who were potentially exposed to measles should remain vigilant for a period of up to 21 days from the date of exposure. Common symptoms to watch for include a high fever (which could exceed 104°F), cough, runny nose, red, watery eyes, and tiny white spots inside the mouth. A red, blotchy rash typically starts on the face and then spreads to the rest of the body.
The Ingham County Health Department has also emphasized that individuals born in or before 1957 are generally considered to have immunity to measles, as they would have likely contracted the disease during childhood.
If any symptoms appear, the department urges individuals to contact their healthcare provider immediately.
The MMR vaccine clinic serves as an important measure to safeguard the health of the community, providing residents with an accessible option to ensure they are properly vaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella.