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Measles cases are rising across the U.S., and health officials are urging everyone to take steps to protect themselves and their families. What is Measles? Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can stay infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to 2 hours.
One person with measles can infect up to 18 others who are not protected.
Symptoms include:
Fever
Cough
runny nose
red eyes
a red rash that spreads across the body
Measles can lead to serious problems like pneumonia (lung infection), brain swelling, and even death.
What You Need to Know:
There are no current measles outbreaks in Oregon, but health officials have confirmed 378 measles cases across 17 States – Surpassing the total number of cases for 2024.
The best way to protect yourself and your family is to stay up to date on your MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine. The MMR vaccine is the only way to prevent measles.
MMR Vaccine Recommendations:
Age Group | MMR Vaccine History | What To Do |
Children (12 months to 12 years) | No MMR vaccine | Get two doses at least 28 days apart |
Children (12 months to 12 years old) | 1 dose of MMR vaccine documented | Get a second dose at least 28 days after the first |
Adults 12 to 67 years old | No MMR vaccine documented | Get two doses at least 28 days apart |
Adults 12 to 67 years old | 1 dose of MMR vaccine documented | No action needed unless concerned about immunity |
Adults over 68 years old | No MMR vaccine documented | No action needed — presumed immune |
If you are unsure about you or your child’s vaccination status you can:
Contact your medical provider – they can look up your record.
Ask your child’s school – Schools must keep immunization records.
Call Lincoln County Public Health at 541-265-4112 – We can check your records.
Where to Get the MMR Vaccine:
If you or your child needs an MMR vaccine, you can make an appointment at:
Coastal Healthcare – Call 541-265-4947 – Appointments available for new and existing adult and child patients).
Walmart, Walgreens, Rite Aid, or Safeway pharmacies – Appointments available for adult and child vaccinations.
Samaritan Health Services Pediatrics –
If your child is an existing patient, call their doctor’s office directly.
If you need to establish care for your child with a Samaritan, call 1-800-863-5241 to set up an appointment.
*This information was brought to you by the Lincoln County Public Health Disease Prevention Program.
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