Summer is a great time to have fun; don't let measles ruin your plans

Summer is a great time to have fun; don’t let measles ruin your plans.

The Washington State Department of Health is reminding people, who are unvaccinated, that it is never too late to get their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Measles is highly contagious, and easily spread when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. It is one of the leading causes of death among children worldwide.

Last week, the Snohomish Health District confirmed that people living in the same household tested positive for measles.

People who have not been vaccinated or who are unsure if they need the measles vaccination should ask their health care provider.

People who are unvaccinated or are not sure if they are immune, and become sick with fever or an unexplained rash should call a health care provider right away. Always call first before going to your health care provider so people in the waiting room are not exposed.

In 2017-2018 school year, 90.6 percent of kindergartners and 96.1 percent of 6th graders were up to date on the MMR vaccine.

DOH goal is to have 95 percent of children up to date on the MMR vaccine.