With the fall flu and Covid-19 season just around the corner, a recently confirmed case of measles in the Upstate of South Carolina highlights the importance of vaccinations, according to the S.C. Department of Public Health (DPH).
“It is proven that the best way to prevent measles is by vaccination,” DPH epidemiologist Dr. Linda Bell said in a Sept. 19 statement. “I strongly encourage that everyone makes sure that they stay up to date with all recommended vaccinations.”
Measles is a life-threatening virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. DPH learned of the potential case on Sept. 12, when the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) notified state health officials that a potential exposure had taken place on an international flight. Subsequent tracking and testing confirmed the diagnosis on Sept. 16.
The news comes on the heels of earlier DPH efforts to encourage vaccination during August’s National Immunization Awareness Month, when state health officials strongly advised residents to follow their doctors’ recommendations regarding pediatric and adult vaccinations.
“As important as vaccines are for children, adults benefit from vaccines as well,” the DPH said August 19. “Many adult vaccines are recommended at certain ages or for certain risk groups, so we recommend checking with your healthcare provider to determine which vaccines are right for you.”
Currently, the CDC recommends Americans six months and older get Covid-19 and influenza vaccinations for 2024-25 to protect against the latest strains. For a full list of recommendations, including childhood immunization schedules, visit the CDC website.
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