LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Amidst a national outbreak of measles, Lake County Health Services is emphasizing the critical importance of vaccination, particularly the measles, mumps and rubella, or MMR, vaccine, in safeguarding communities’ health.
Health officials said it's essential for parents to understand that unvaccinated children are at a higher risk of contracting measles and will be subject to exclusion from school if there are confirmed cases or exposure at their school.
Lake County Public Health emphasizes the importance of vaccination in protecting not only individual health but also the health of the entire community.
To enhance access to MMR vaccination, Lake County Public Health offers free vaccines at our Walk-In Clinic every Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with a lunch break from noon to 1 p.m. No appointment is required; you can just walk in.
Public Health Officer Dr. Noemi Doohan stressed the urgency of the situation. “With the increasing number of measles cases in the USA and now in California, we are at risk for outbreaks of this vaccine-preventable illness in our county. Most of our Lake County schools have excellent measles vaccination rates but a few schools are under vaccinated. When measles vaccination rates are low, it opens the community up for measles outbreaks that can start in schools.”
Doohan said Public Health is grateful for partnerships with organizations such as the Kelseyville Unified School District, which will host a back to school event on May 30 from 3 to 6 p.m., offering free vaccines including the MMR vaccine for eligible children.
Key facts about measles:
• Measles is highly contagious and can be severe, especially in children under 5 years old.
• Measles spreads through the air via coughing or sneezing. Wearing a mask can help prevent its transmission.
• An infected person can spread measles even before developing the rash.
• About 1 in 5 people with measles in the U.S. will be hospitalized, and severe complications can arise, including brain swelling and death.
“As your public health officer, I hope this information is helpful. We have had four confirmed cases of measles in California, since February 2024, most recently in an outbreak in nearby Davis,” Doohan said. “Regarding vaccination rates, Lake County is fortunate to have a relatively high MMR vaccination rate compared to our neighboring counties. However, this does not diminish the need for continued vigilance and promotion of vaccination efforts.”
In the face of the ongoing measles outbreak, Lake County officials remind community members that vaccination is a cornerstone of public health.
“Through our collective efforts we can protect our community from vaccine-preventable diseases and ensure a healthier community for all,” the agency said in a statement.
Lake County Public Health urges immediate action amidst national measles outbreak
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