With an increase in measles cases recently reported in eastern Pennsylvania, St. Luke’s pediatricians are encouraging parents to take steps to protect their children, including discussing an accelerated vaccination schedule with their child's healthcare provider.
“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 recommends that parents of children who live in or plan to travel to areas where measles cases have been reported consult their pediatrician about whether an earlier vaccination schedule may be appropriate:
- Infants ages 6-11 months may be eligible for an early dose of the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine.
- Children who have already received one MMR dose at one year of age may be eligible to receive their second dose earlier than the usual four-year-old dose
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.
