The Minnesota Department of Health is asking people to take proper precautions to protect themselves and their children against measles.
"Although the risk of severe complications from Measles infection is low, in some instances it can be fatal," said Dr. Peter Henry, medical consultant for Crow Wing County public health, in a press release. "Secondary infections such as encephalitis, a condition associated with inflammation of the brain, pneumonia and bronchitis can occur. Contrast this risk with the significantly lower risk of the incidence of severe complications from the measles vaccine."
The Minnesota Immunization Information Connection (MIIC) is a system that stores electronic immunization records for Minnesota health service providers. MIIC combines immunizations a person has received into a single record, even if the shots were given by different healthcare providers in the state. To check if measles vaccinations are current, request a copy of the MIIC record from a healthcare provider or from a local public health office.
To schedule an appointment for a measles shot, call a clinic or healthcare provider. People needing a measles shot who are without insurance or whose insurance does not cover vaccinations may call Margie Young at 824-1098 for a list of other counties offering reduced-cost vaccinations.
