As measles cases continue to rise in Tennessee, CVS Health reminds residents that vaccines are available statewide

WOONSOCKET, R.I. – Following the Tennessee Department of Health's recent confirmation of nine measles cases in the state, CVS Health is reminding Tennesseans that the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is available at CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic locations statewide for eligible patients.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, measles is a disease that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Common symptoms of measles include fever, which may exceed 104°F, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes, followed by a red, blotchy rash. Symptoms can appear seven to 14 days after exposure but may take up to 21 days.

Measles is highly contagious. If one person has it, up to 9 out of 10 people nearby will become infected if they are not protected. An infected person can spread measles to others even before knowing they have the disease—from four days before developing the measles rash through four days afterward. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the spread of measles.

The MMR vaccine may provide some protection if given within the first three days (72 hours) after exposure to measles. It is also important for anyone who has not been vaccinated to receive the MMR vaccine to help protect against measles (also mumps and rubella) during future measles exposure. Measles can be prevented with measles-containing vaccines. The CDC recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine, typically administered at 12 to 15 months of age and again at 4 to 6 years of age.

Patients ages 3 and older can receive the MMR vaccine at any of the 134 CVS Pharmacy locations in Tennessee. At MinuteClinic, nurse practitioners and physician associates can provide the recommended second vaccination to children 4 to 6 years old. The first dose, if planned to be given during the recommended age of 12 to 15 months old, cannot be administered at CVS Pharmacy or MinuteClinic.

People are considered immune to measles if they have received two MMR vaccines or were born before 1957. Measles booster vaccines are also available for certain groups, including college students, international travelers and health care personnel. Individuals in these populations should consult a health care professional to determine whether they need an additional dose. Pharmacy and MinuteClinic staff can assist patients in determining whether the vaccine is covered by their insurance plan.

While walk-ins are accepted at CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic, patients are encouraged to schedule a vaccination appointment at CVS.com or via the CVS Health app in advance to ensure vaccine availability. Vaccination appointments at MinuteClinic can also be scheduled by visiting MinuteClinic.com.