In response to a mumps outbreak at the University of Illinois, the Lake County Health Department is offering free booster shots of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine to enrolled students who will be returning this month to Urbana-Champaign.
The shots are recommended as soon as possible, even if the student has already received one or two previous MMR vaccinations, according to the health department.
The health department’s immunizations program is offering the state-provided vaccine, which was made available due to the outbreak. Call 847-377-8470 for an appointment at the clinic, located at 2303 Dodge Ave., Waukegan.
According to the health department, research indicates that a third dose of the MMR vaccine can be helpful in controlling mumps outbreaks in this setting. The McKinley Health Center at the University of Illinois, the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District and the Illinois Department of Public Health are recommending a third dose of the MMR vaccine for UIUC students.
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Health officials said this is especially important for those planning on living in congregate settings such as dormitories and fraternity or sorority houses.
The vaccine may take up to two weeks to provide protection against mumps, officials said, so if possible, this extra dose of the MMR vaccine should be obtained prior to returning to campus. Classes start the third week of August.
In addition to the booster shot, it is important to practice good health habits to reduce the spread of disease, including washing hands frequently with soap and water, not sharing eating utensils, drinking cups, or cigarettes, cleaning frequently touched surfaces, and minimizing close contact with people when sick.
For more information, visit: http//health.lakecountyil.gov/Population/Pages/Immunizations.aspx
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