LANSING, Mich. — The Ingham County Health Department hosted an MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) vaccine clinic Tuesday afternoon in response to a recent measles case detected in the area. The clinic was held from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Ingham County Human Services Building in Lansing, located in Conference Room A, entrance #3 on the 2nd floor.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, along with the Ingham County Health Department, confirmed that a 1-year-old girl had contracted measles after traveling outside of Michigan. This marks the first reported case of measles in the county since 1994, heightening concerns over the highly contagious disease.
Measles is a viral infection that spreads easily through the air and direct person-to-person contact. Infected individuals can transmit the disease to others before showing any symptoms, and the virus can linger in the air for hours after the person has left an area.
Health officials are urging anyone who may have been exposed to measles to monitor themselves for symptoms. These symptoms typically include fever, cough, runny nose, and a distinctive rash, which can develop up to 21 days after exposure. Individuals who exhibit these symptoms are advised to contact their local health department for guidance.
If symptoms become severe, such as difficulty breathing or a high fever, health officials recommend seeking care immediately. Patients are encouraged to call ahead to their healthcare provider or the emergency room to prevent potential exposure to others.
The clinic aimed to provide protection to those who may not be fully vaccinated or those who need a booster shot. In addition to the MMR vaccine, which is the best defense against measles, health officials stress the importance of staying up to date on vaccinations to prevent the further spread of the disease.
As the county navigates this potential health threat, officials continue to monitor the situation closely and stress the importance of vaccination as a preventative measure in safeguarding the community.
For more information on vaccination schedules and measles prevention, residents can visit the Ingham County Health Department’s website or contact their local health providers.
