ELLETTSVILLE — There are more than 700 cases of measles in the United States this year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including six connected cases in Indiana. Local health officials are doing what they can to stop the outbreak before it gets worse.
"It's a tragedy. We don't need to see measles outbreaks in the year 2025. It was eradicated in this country," said Sara Dillard of the Indiana Immunization Coalition. "We currently have six in Indiana, and I'm worried that six will be a lot more soon."
Health organizations across central Indiana are spreading the word about free measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccines after the six measles cases were discovered in Allen County.
The Morgan County Health Department is now advertising its free weekly vaccination clinics on the large digital billboard next to State Road 67 and Samuel Moore Parkway in Mooresville.
Further south, the Monroe County Health Department is hosting a free vaccination clinic at the Ellettsville Public Library on Monday, April 21.
Dillard said her organization has hosted mobile vaccination clinics long before this year's measles outbreak, but it takes on a new significance now.
"We have been routinely busy. I think people really value how important immunizations are," Dillard said. "Measles is only a plane ride away."
-
New study sheds light on connection between medical debt and housing instability
A new study shows people carrying medical debt are significantly more likely to have trouble paying their rent or mortgage.
Indiana child protection bill inspired by Hailey Buzbee heads to Governor's desk
A bill inspired by the death of 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee is headed to the governor's desk after the Indiana House voted unanimously, 96-0, on Wednesday.
Indianapolis teen charged as adult in connection with officer-involved shooting
A teenager has been charged as an adult following an officer-involved shooting on Indianapolis' far east side.
Woman found dead in burning west side home; Man arrested for murder, arson
A man is in custody following the death of a woman whose body was discovered inside a fire-damaged home on Indianapolis' west side Wednesday morning.
