As measles cases rise nationally, Nebraska’s overall vaccination rates are decreasing across the state. The West Central District Health Department is taking action to improve vaccination rates in its district.
The WCDHD is partnering with Nebraska organizations to host the Community Health Fair at Mid-Plains Community College’s North Campus this Friday. The agency’s goal is to provide immunizations and information addressing concerns of preventable diseases like measles.
The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services reported its first case of measles since 2017 this spring. Meghan Trevino Executive Director of the WCDHD, said the agency attempts to inform Nebraskans about immunizations, including the MMR vaccination.
“The MMR vaccine has been around for decades,” Trevino said. “This is a vaccine that has been proven to be safe and effective and is really the primary way that we can make sure that we’re protecting our neighbors, our family members and all of those that we love and care about.”
She said the department has seen a decline in Nebraskans up to date on their vaccines, as well as requests for religious exemptions for the immunizations.
“We know that one dose of the vaccine, can prove to be incredibly effective. Two doses of that vaccine are nearly 100% effective,” she said. “It’s right around that, 97% effective when you’ve received both vaccines. So, when you look at the benefit versus the risk of receiving the vaccine, the benefit far outweighs any potential risk.”
Visitors do not need insurance to receive vaccinations or any other health care at the event. Guests are encouraged by WCDHD to contact them for more immunization information.
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