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San Mateo County and Santa Clara County public health officials are urging residents to ensure they are up to date on their measles vaccinations as a growing outbreak spreads in western Texas.
Children between the ages of 12 months and 3 years are recommended to receive one dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, while children between 4 and 6 years old should have two doses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“Now is good time for families to make sure they are current with their MMR vaccines, especially those with infants or who plan to travel abroad,” said San Mateo County Health Officer Dr. Kismet Baldwin-Santana in a press release.
Individuals older than six can still get fully vaccinated by receiving one or two doses at least 28 days apart.
As of March 13, the CDC has confirmed 301 measles cases across 14 states, including California. One death has been reported, and another is under investigation. It was the first death due to measles since 2015.
Of those infected, 2% had received both recommended MMR doses, while 3% had received only one dose. 17% of confirmed cases required hospitalization.
In California, five cases have been reported, all linked to international travel, according to the San Mateo County Office of Health. Before traveling abroad, SMC Health advises residents to check the CDC’s Global Measles Travel Health Notice for information on active outbreaks and vaccination recommendations.
