With Indiana reporting its first confirmed measles cases of the year, Lake County health officials are expanding vaccination efforts to guard against a potential spread of the virus.
This week, the Indiana Department of Health confirmed six measles cases in Allen County, nearly three hours away from Lake County and its Gary residents. All six cases are related to one another, involving four unvaccinated minors and two adults whose vaccination status is unclear, according to the Indiana Department of Health. This is Indiana’s first measles case since a Lake County resident was diagnosed in early 2024.
As of April 4, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 607 confirmed measles cases in 22 jurisdictions across the United States and said the risk to the public remains low.
In response, the Lake County Health Department is offering extended hours at two locations in the region, in addition to its daily immunization clinic, without an appointment needed.
Vaccination clinics are available at the following locations and dates:
- Thursday, April 10, 2 to 6 p.m.
Hammond Sportsplex and Community Center
6630 Indianapolis Blvd., Hammond
Phone: (219) 853-7660
- Tuesday, April 15, 4 to 8 p.m.
Barbara Dean White Center
6600 Broadway, Merrillville
Phone: (219) 980-5911
- Daily immunization clinic
Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Lake County Health Department
2900 W. 93rd Ave., Crown Point
Phone: (219) 755-3655
If you are unsure about your or your family’s vaccination status, contact the Lake County Health Department for guidance at (219) 755-3655.
What is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can be spread easily, particularly among unvaccinated people, through coughing and sneezing. Contact with contaminated air or surfaces can aid the spread of measles.
What are Measles symptoms?
Measles typically starts with a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, usually appearing seven to 14 days after exposure, but symptoms can develop up to 21 days later, according to the Indiana Health Department. Symptoms can also emerge as tiny white spots (Koplik spots) inside the mouth and/or a rash on the hairline and face, eventually spreading to the back, torso, arms, hands, legs, and feet. After about five days, the rash gradually fades in the reverse order in which it appeared.
People born before 1957 are presumed to be immune to measles, while children under the age of 5 and younger are more at risk for serious complications from exposure, according to the CDC.
What can you do?
Measles is entirely preventable through vaccination. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles, according to the Indiana Department of Health.
The Lake County Health Department encourages all eligible residents to check their vaccination status and take immediate action if needed. If you present symptoms of measles, the health department recommends residents stay home, avoid public spaces, and contact their health care provider immediately before visiting the doctor’s office.