St. Luke’s urges parents to review children’s measles vaccinations amid rise in Pennsylvania cases
PENNSYLVANIA – With measles cases increasing in eastern Pennsylvania, St. Luke’s University Health Network is encouraging parents to make sure their children are protected against the highly contagious disease and to discuss an accelerated vaccination schedule with their child’s healthcare provider if appropriate.
“Measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases, but vaccination is the safest and most effective way to protect your child and those around them,” said Jennifer Janco, MD, chair of St. Luke’s Pediatrics.
Dr. Janco said parents whose children live in or plan to travel to areas where measles cases have been reported should consult their pediatrician to determine whether an earlier vaccination schedule is recommended.
According to St. Luke’s, infants ages 6 to 11 months may be eligible for an early dose of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Children who have already received one MMR dose at age 1 also may be eligible to receive their second dose earlier than the routine vaccination at age 4.
An up-to-date list of Pennsylvania counties with confirmed measles cases is available at www.pa.gov/measles.
“We strongly encourage parents to contact their child’s healthcare provider, especially before traveling, to ensure their child is up to date on recommended vaccinations and adequately protected against measles,” Dr. Janco said.
