BLOOMINGTON- While there are currently no reported measles cases in Monroe County, the Monroe County Health Department strongly encourages MMR vaccination for Monroe County residents following Wednesday’s announcement of a confirmed measles case in nearby Putnam County.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to serious complications, especially in young children, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems. The most effective protection against measles is the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine.
The Monroe County Health Department urges all residents to check their vaccination status and take the following steps:
- Get vaccinated if you have never received the MMR vaccine.
- If you were vaccinated between 1962 and 1968, you may have received an inactivated measles vaccine that is no longer considered fully effective. Please consult with your healthcare provider about revaccination or titer testing.
- If you have had titer testing that indicates you have insufficient immunity to measles, mumps, or rubella, you should receive the MMR vaccine.
Most people born after 1957 who have received two doses of the MMR vaccine are considered protected for life and do not need a booster. The MMR vaccine is both safe and effective, and vaccination appointments can be scheduled at the Monroe County Public Health Clinic at 333 E. Miller Dr. in Bloomington by calling 812-353-3244 (for ages 12 months+).
Measles can spread quickly when introduced to an area with pockets of unvaccinated individuals. Vaccination protects not only you and your family, but also those in our community who cannot be vaccinated due to age or medical reasons.
School Exclusion Policy in Indiana
Per the Indiana Department of Health, if a case of measles occurs in your child’s school or daycare, unvaccinated children will be required to stay home from school and all school-related activities for 21 days after their last known exposure to the infected person. The CDC recommends children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, one at age 12-15 months and another at age 4-6 years.
