In response to the recent measles outbreaks across multiple states, the DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) is reminding residents of the importance of measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination, particularly if families are traveling for spring break. Measles is highly contagious and can spread quickly, especially in areas with lower vaccination rates. The best defense is vaccination, which has been proven safe and highly effective.
At this time, there are no known cases of measles in DuPage County. However, measles is highly contagious, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirms that two doses of the MMR vaccine provide 97% immunity (one dose is about 93% effective), reducing the risk of infection, illness, and helping to prevent outbreaks.
Your doctor’s office or your child’s doctor’s office is usually the best place to receive recommended vaccines. Vaccines may also be available at pharmacies and community health clinics. Use Vaccines.gov to find a location near you, then call or visit their website to make an appointment. In addition, DCHD provides the MMR vaccine to eligible children through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. This program serves children who are uninsured, underinsured, or Medicaid-eligible. To find additional providers offering vaccines through the VFC program, please visit: Find VFC Providers in Illinois.
Read the full press release here.