IDPH: Make sure your child get their measles immunization

Hotez says babies under one year old could die from illnesses like measles. (Source: Pixabay)
Hotez says babies under one year old could die from illnesses like measles. (Source: Pixabay)
Published: Apr. 30, 2019 at 3:46 PM CDT
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SPRINGFIELD, IL (KFVS) - The Illinois Department of Public Health is asking parents to talk to their health provider to make sure their child is fully immunized for measles.

April 27-May 4, 2019 is National Infant Immunization Week.

“Because of the success of vaccines in preventing disease, parents may not have heard of some of the serious diseases they prevent. Children can suffer serious illness and even death when exposed to diseases like measles, mumps, and pertussis,” said Director, Dr. Ngozi Ezike. “Although vaccines are among the most successful, safe, and cost-effective public health tools available for preventing disease and death, some people still chose not to be vaccinated. It is essential that you protect your child against serious illness by having them vaccinated before they are exposed to potentially life-threatening diseases.”

As of April 26 there have been more than 700 cases of measles in the U.S. this year, including 78 new cases identified this last week. It is the largest number of cases reported in the U.S. since 1994 - and since measles was eliminated in 2000.

More information about the VFC program and immunizations can be found on the IDPH website.

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