Urgent Alert: Allen County Health Officials Call for Measles Vaccinations During Outbreak – Protect Your Family Today!

ALLEN COUNTY, Ind. – Local health leaders are urging residents to stay on top of their vaccinations as measles cases rise across the country. The latest CDC report shows three measles outbreaks in the U.S. this year, with 164 cases in nine states. Texas has seen the most cases, including the tragic death of an unvaccinated child.

Vaccination rates have dipped since the pandemic. Currently, only 93% of kindergarteners have received the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, falling short of the 95% target set by health experts. This drop raises concerns about community health.

Dr. Thomas Gutwein from the Allen County Department of Health and Connie Heflin from Super Shot emphasize that vaccinations are essential in preventing dangerous diseases. “Vaccines are quick, easy, and available at many providers, including Super Shot and our health department,” Dr. Gutwein stated. “We need to work together to prevent outbreaks.”

Super Shot, located at 1515 Stellhorn Road in Fort Wayne, offers multiple vaccines, including the MMR vaccine, to everyone, regardless of insurance status. They ask for a $15 fee per shot for those without insurance, but if that’s unaffordable, the vaccine will be provided for free.

Children need two doses of the MMR vaccine: the first at 12 months and the second at 4 years. If you’re unsure of your child’s vaccination status, you can call 260-424-7468 for assistance.

Measles spreads easily through coughing and sneezing. It can lead to serious complications, especially in young kids, such as ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, and even death. The disease is highly contagious and can quickly affect anyone who is unvaccinated or hasn’t had it before.

Fortunately, no measles cases have been reported in Indiana so far. Health officials encourage everyone to get vaccinated to keep the community safe. “Vaccines are available, and we want to help you keep your family healthy,” said Mindy Waldron, Administrator of the Allen County Department of Health.

To learn more about measles and how to protect yourself, visit the CDC website. You can also check out Super Shot’s website for more information on available vaccinations.