Erie County health officials urge MMR vaccinations as measles spreads

Erie County public health officials warned residents that measles is spreading across the state and urged vaccination to prevent further transmission.

John Stale, the countywide engagement officer, said the Erie County Department of Public Health team prepared information for residents on how to protect themselves and what to do if they believe they were exposed. "Today, we're talking about measles, and it is spreading across the state," he said.

Erin Renick, director of the health department, described common early signs of the illness, saying it often begins with symptoms that resemble a cold: "Cough, runny nose, red watery eyes, and often a very high fever." She noted measles later progresses to a rash that begins at the hairline and spreads across the body.

Colleen Wallace, director of community health services, emphasized the high transmissibility of measles and urged vaccination: "If you are not immunized or protected against measles, you have a 90 percent chance of contracting the disease if you are exposed. So please, if you are not immunized, get your MMR vaccine." Wallace also urged parents to check the immunization records of their children.

Officials directed residents with questions or exposure concerns to the Erie County Department of Public Health website for current information and next steps. "Go over to the health department page and look for the health now icon," Stale said.

The health department advised contacting the county for a risk assessment and to contact a health care provider before visiting a facility if symptomatic.