WOONSOCKET, R.I. — CVS Health is providing measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccines to South Carolina residents as public health officials work to control the ongoing measles outbreak in the state. The company stated that select CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic locations throughout South Carolina now have vaccines available to help protect unvaccinated individuals and those who might have been recently exposed.
Measles is one of the most contagious viral diseases, with the CDC noting that up to 90 percent of unprotected individuals exposed to the virus may become infected. Symptoms usually start 7 to 14 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, red, watery eyes, and a distinctive blotchy rash.
CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic are offering the MMR vaccine at over 200 locations statewide. The vaccine may provide some protection if given within 72 hours of exposure, and it remains the most effective prevention method for future measles encounters. People are considered immune if they have received two documented doses or were born before 1957.
Patients aged three and older can get the vaccine at CVS Pharmacy. MinuteClinic locations offer second-dose vaccines for children ages four to six. Staff at both sites can help patients check their insurance coverage.
While walk-ins are accepted at CVS Pharmacy, patients are encouraged to schedule a vaccination appointment at CVS.com or via the CVS Health app in advance to ensure vaccine availability. Vaccinations appointments at MinuteClinic can be scheduled by visiting MinuteClinic.com.
