TriCounty Health Department confirmed its first cases of measles this week and a drive-thru vaccination clinic is being held this Saturday. Statewide, the Department of Health has confirmed over 350 cases during the current outbreak, with southern Utah accounting for over 200 of those cases. The TriCounty Health announcement states, “The best way to prevent measles is to get vaccinated. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine gives long-lasting protection. Check your vaccination records to make sure you and your family are up to date. There is no specific cure for measles. Doctors can help treat symptoms and treat other infections that may happen. If you were exposed to measles and are not immune, you may be able to get the MMR vaccine within 72 hours to lower your risk. If you cannot show proof of immunity, you may need to stay home from school, childcare, or work to prevent spreading the virus. Even if you still get measles after vaccination, symptoms are often milder and last a shorter time.” The measles drive-thru vaccine clinic is happening this Saturday from 10am to 2pm in the east parking lot of the Roosevelt Uintah Basin Healthcare campus. If you’re unsure of your or a family member’s vaccination status, you can download the “Docket” app for access to your personal and family immunization records.
