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How Checking Your Vaccination Status Helps Prevent the Spread of Measles

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With measles cases rising across the United States, the Connecticut Department of Public Health recently encouraged all Connecticut residents to verify their vaccination status. By doing so, people can ensure that their protection against measles is adequate and take steps to update their vaccination if needed.

As of March 20th, 2025, there were 378 confirmed cases of measles across 18 jurisdictions in the United States. These cases have led to one confirmed death and one death under investigation, and have overwhelmingly affected people who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown.

No cases have emerged in Connecticut, and the state’s strong vaccination rate is a good step toward herd immunity. This occurs when at least 95 percent of a community has been vaccinated against a disease, helping to stop its spread and protecting those in the community who are unable to receive the vaccine.

Here’s how you can check your vaccination status and see if you may need to take action to help strengthen the health of the community.

 

How a Vaccination Status Check Works

To check your vaccination status, you need to look up your medical records to confirm that you received a measles vaccine. The Connecticut Department of Public Health provides an immunization portal to safely and securely check your vaccine status or that of your child. This system began collecting records for children in 1998 and adults in 2022.

You can also check with your doctor’s office to see if they have immunization records on file. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says adults can potentially find this information from childhood records, school health departments, or past employers.

Since it can sometimes be challenging to find these records, a doctor can also order a blood test to determine your immunity to measles. The measles titer test measures the level of measles antibodies in your blood to determine if you have sufficient protection. 

 

When You Might Need to Update Your Measles Vaccine

The measles vaccine was first licensed in the United States in 1963. Since 1971, it has been available as part of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine to provide protection against additional diseases.

Your protection against measles is significantly dependent on your age:

  • People born before 1957: These individuals are generally considered immune to measles due to widespread exposure to the disease during this time.
  • People born between 1958 to 1962: These individuals were born shortly before the measles vaccine became available. This creates some uncertainty over whether they contracted measles or received a measles vaccine, so it is recommended that they confirm their immunity.
  • People born between 1963 and 1967: Some people born during this period received a killed or inactivated measles vaccine, which was later found to be less effective against the disease. These individuals should receive at least one dose of the live attenuated MMR vaccine.
  • People born between 1968 and 1989: During this period, those who got the MMR vaccine received one dose. Beginning in 1989, a two-dose regimen was recommended after research showed that some people did not develop full immunity from a single dose. If you were born during this time, it is recommended that you get a blood test to see if you need to receive a second dose.
  • People born after 1989: People vaccinated during this period fall within the current recommendation of receiving two doses of the MMR vaccine for optimal protection.

If you are unsure of your vaccination history, it is recommended that you get one dose of the MMR vaccine. 

 

Who Can (and Cannot) Get the Measles Vaccine

All children should receive two doses of MMR vaccine. The first dose is typically given between 12 and 15 months of age, while the second dose is given between ages 4 and 6. The vaccine is also recommended for infants between the ages of 6 and 11 months who are traveling internationally or to areas within the United States where there is an active measles transmission.

The vaccine can also be administered to adults who are unvaccinated or who show evidence of inadequate immunity. People who may be at higher risk of contracting measles, such as health care workers or international travelers, should ensure that they have been vaccinated and have strong immunity.

Your doctor may recommend that you not get the MMR vaccine if there is a concern that it might cause health complications. The vaccine is typically not recommended for:

  • Pregnant women
  • Individuals with a history of severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to gelatin or neomycin, which are components of the vaccine
  • Individuals who have weakened immune systems due to certain medical conditions or treatments (e.g., cancer, HIV, or high doses of corticosteroids)
  • People with active tuberculosis

Protecting our community from measles requires collective effort. By checking your vaccination status and ensuring you are fully immunized, you can help prevent the spread of this preventable disease.

For more information, visit the Connecticut Department of Public Health.

Meet the Uncas Health District Medical Reserve Corps

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The Uncas Health District oversees several programs to promote public health in Eastern Connecticut, one of which relies on the dedication of volunteers to provide assistance during emergencies. The Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) is part of a national network of people working to strengthen local readiness and reduce potential vulnerabilities during such incidents.

Here’s a look at how the MRC under the Uncas Health District has made a difference:

 

Who Makes Up the MRC?

The Medical Reserve Corps consists of both medical professionals and non-medical support staff. The MRC administered by the Uncas Health District serves the towns of Bozrah, Griswold, Franklin, Lebanon, Lisbon, Montville, Norwich, Preston, Salem, Sprague, and Voluntown.

This is one of four MRCs in Eastern Connecticut. Additional regions are served through the Eastern Highlands Health District, Ledge Light Health District, and Northeast District Department of Health.

 

What Does the MRC Do?

The Medical Reserve Corps is divided into teams to provide prompt assistance in the event of a natural disaster or other serious incidents. These teams specialize in dispensing supplies, providing medical aid, supporting operations virtually, and sharing information through local cable access television.

Volunteers receive free training through CT-Train, and participate in exercises, drills, and courses to develop and practice their skills. These preparations help develop expertise in topics like psychological first aid, CPR and first aid, Stop the Bleed and Until Help Arrives lifesaving skills, personal emergency preparedness, bloodborne pathogens, and FEMA incident management practices.

The Uncas MRC participates in numerous events throughout the year, including flu clinics, health expos, recruitment fairs, and more to raise awareness of its work and share information on emergency preparedness. It has also filmed a local public access television talk show called Public Health Matters, cross-trained with the Montville chapter of the American Red Cross on emergency sheltering, and assisted with public health measures such as at-home COVID vaccinations, food drives, and blood pressure clinics.

 

MRC Statistics

The Uncas MRC was established in February 2007 and currently includes 70 volunteers — 53 with medical expertise and 17 non-medical supporters.

During one typical five-year period, the Uncas MRC responded to 57 incidents or events. It contributed 460.25 volunteer hours with a total economic value of $17,619.

The team was particularly busy during COVID-19. A total of 45 MRC activations were related to the pandemic.

 

Joining the MRC

The Uncas Health Districts invites new members to join the Medical Reserve Corps and help make a difference! No experience is necessary, and you can complete the initial intake form at CTResponds to get started.

For more information on the MRC, click here. You can also contact MRC coordinator Sara Darlagiannis directly at 508-207-3177 or mrc@uncashd.org with any questions.

Protecting Yourself and Your Family From the Measles

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Measles is a highly contagious disease and can have serious health effects.

The measles virus has been in the news lately, with a major outbreak in West Texas and isolated cases emerging elsewhere in the United States. While people may consider measles to be a common and non-threatening childhood illness, the truth is that this virus is highly contagious and can be lethal — as shown by the tragic death of an unvaccinated child in the Texas outbreak, the first measles fatality in the United States in a decade.

The Uncas Health District wants to ensure that our community is informed about the measles virus and prepared to respond to it. Here’s what you need to know: 

 

Measles Symptoms

Measles is a serious respiratory disease that is spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or breathes. Initial symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after exposure and can include:

  • High fever
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
  • Tiny white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
  • A rash of flat, red spots starts on the face at the hairline and spreads down to the neck, trunk, and extremities.

Measles can sometimes lead to severe complications, including:

  • Pneumonia
  • Encephalitis (brain swelling)
  • Ear infections
  • Diarrhea
  • In rare cases, death

Who is Most at Risk?

Anyone who is not immune to measles can contract the virus, but certain groups are at higher risk. These include: 

  • Unvaccinated individuals who have not received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine
  • Young children, particularly those under 12 months old, who have not received their first dose of MMR vaccine
  • Pregnant women who can develop complications, including premature birth or miscarriage, when contracting measles
  • People with weakened immune systems like HIV/AIDS, cancer, or those taking immunosuppressant medications
  • People traveling to areas with ongoing measles outbreaks

The Importance of Vaccination

Developing immunity to measles is the strongest measure of protection against the virus. People can develop immunity to measles by developing antibodies after contracting the virus or when these antibodies are passed on to them during pregnancy. However, the safest and most effective way to protect against measles is the MMR vaccine.

This two-dose vaccine contains a weakened version of a live measles virus, which allows the body to develop antibodies against the virus without the risk of more severe effects. The vaccine provides 97 percent protection against measles, and symptoms are milder in the rare case of vaccinated individuals contracting the virus.

High vaccination rates also have the beneficial effect of creating “herd immunity,” preventing the spread of measles through communities. This offers protection to infants and others who are more at risk from measles.

It is strongly advised that everyone who is able to receive the MMR vaccine do so. Contacting your health care provider can ensure that you and your family are up to date on your vaccinations. 

What to Do if You Contract Measles

If you or someone in your family develops measles symptoms, take the following steps.

  • Contact your healthcare provider immediately. Call before going to the doctor’s office or emergency room to avoid spreading the virus.
  • Stay home. Isolate yourself to prevent infecting others.
  • Follow your doctor’s instructions. Your healthcare provider will provide guidance on managing symptoms and preventing complications.
  • Notify your local health department. This will help local health authorities to track measles cases and take necessary public health measures.

DPH: Make Sure Your Child’s Vaccinations are Up to Date

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happy vaccinated child

With 2025 just around the corner, the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) is reminding parents to make sure their children’s immunizations are up to date.

The good news is that Connecticut school immunization rates are rebounding. The percentage of Connecticut kindergarten students receiving the required measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine in the 2023–2024 school year is 97.7%. This is an increase of 0.4% from the previous year. Among schools with more than 30 kindergarten students, compared with last year, there was a 3% increase in the number of schools with MMR vaccination rates at or above 95%. Parents and the public can access information on immunization completion rates for schools in Connecticut by visiting data.ct.gov and typing in school immunization survey data.

“It’s important for parents to check with their child’s healthcare provider to ensure that all vaccinations are up to date,” said DPH Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD. “If parents have any questions or concerns about vaccinating their children, they should discuss them with their child’s primary care provider. We want to make sure every child attending school in Connecticut is protected from vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles.”

Earlier this fall, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that Connecticut medical exemptions went up 0.1% and non-medical exemptions went down 0.4% from the 2022–2023 to 2023–2024 school years.

Additionally, coverage rates for Connecticut kindergartners increased from the 2022–2023 to 2023–2024 school years and remain above the national average.

High vaccination rates protect not only vaccinated children but also those who cannot or have not been vaccinated. This is called herd immunity. Schools that achieve herd immunity reduce the risk of outbreaks. High vaccination rates at schools are especially important for medically fragile children.

Some children have conditions that affect their immunity, such as illnesses that require chemotherapy. These children cannot be safely vaccinated, and, at the same time, they are less able to fight off illness when they are infected. They depend on herd immunity for their health and their lives.

“School attendance is foundational to learning and academic success, as well as to supporting students’ social, emotional, and physical well-being,” said Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker. “Ensuring students are healthy and ready to learn from the first day of school is critical, and immunizations are one of the many important tools that help create safe and supportive learning environments for all.”

Uncas Health District Has Flu Vaccines

Flu Shots are available through Uncas Health District. Vaccines are available through our Mobile Health Team or by appointment. To schedule, simply call 860-823-1189

There are still plenty of vaccine doses available, and flu shots are free for individuals with the following insurance plans:

  • Anthem BC/BS
  • Cigna
  • ConnectiCare
  • Medicare
  • TriCare
  • UnitedHealthCare

Thanks to a donation, individuals without insurance or with other insurance can also receive their flu vaccine at no cost this season. Normally, the standard-dose flu vaccine costs $20, and the high-dose flu vaccine is $65 for those without insurance.

Get Your Vaccination Record Online

To learn how to get you or your child’s vaccine record securely online, visit ct.gov/getmyvaccinerecord. The CT WiZ Public Portal is a confidential and free service provided by the Connecticut Department of Public Health Immunization Program.

Anyone with questions regarding the Connecticut Vaccine Program can call 860-509-7929 or email dph.immunizations@ct.gov.

For more information about vaccines, visit https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/parents/index.html

School is Back — Let’s Have a Safe, Happy, and Healthy School Year

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father sending young son off to school

School is back in session! With a new school year upon us, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Here are some valuable safety tips to help parents, guardians, and caregivers ensure their children’s safety as they embark on a new academic journey.

Safe Transportation: Whether your child walks, bikes, or takes the bus to school, it’s important to prioritize their safety during their commute. Remind them to use designated crosswalks, follow traffic signals, and wear helmets while biking. If they take the bus, educate them about proper behavior at the bus stop and on the bus, such as staying seated and wearing seat belts if available.

two boys in a crosswalk

Backpacks: Heavy backpacks can strain a child’s back and shoulders. Ensure your child’s backpack is appropriately sized, has padded straps, and is worn with both straps to distribute the weight evenly. Encourage them to only carry what’s necessary to lighten the load.

Cyber Safety: In the digital age, cyber safety is paramount. Teach your children the importance of not sharing personal information online, being cautious about the content they view, and being respectful in their online interactions.

Healthy Eating: A balanced diet contributes to overall well-being. Pack nutritious lunches and snacks that include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein. Avoid sugary snacks and beverages that can lead to energy crashes later in the day.Vaccinations: Ensure your child’s vaccinations are up-to-date. Vaccinations play a crucial role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases within the school community.

Emergency Contacts: Update your child’s emergency contact information with the school. Provide accurate phone numbers and alternative contacts in case you’re unreachable.

Mental Health Check-ins: Starting school can be exciting but also stressful. Check-in with your child’s emotional well-being, and let them know it’s okay to talk about their feelings. Teach them healthy ways to cope with stress.

As we gear up for another school year, let’s prioritize the safety and well-being of all school-aged children. By following these safety tips and fostering an environment of open communication, we can help make the academic journey not only educational but also fun and safe.

To find when the Uncas Mobile Health Team will be coming to your neighborhood, check out our calendar. 

For a listing of 2024-25 immunization requirements for students enrolled in Connecticut schools, click here.

National Infant Immunization Week: Protecting Our Littlest Ones

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infant receiving vaccine

Every year in April, we celebrate National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW), a dedicated time to raise awareness about the importance of protecting infants and young children from vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs). This year, NIIW runs from April 22nd to 29th, 2024.

Why Vaccines Matter

Vaccines are one of the most successful and cost-effective public health tools we have. They work by exposing the body to a weakened or inactive form of a virus or bacteria, which helps the body develop immunity without getting a full-blown illness. This protects not only the vaccinated child but also those around them, creating a herd immunity effect that benefits the entire community.

Focus on Staying on Track with Vaccinations

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted many aspects of our lives, including well-child visits and childhood vaccinations. This NIIW, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) want to emphasize the importance of getting your child back on track with their recommended vaccinations.

Getting Back on Schedule

If your child’s vaccinations have been delayed, don’t worry! It’s not too late to catch up. Talk to your doctor about creating a plan to get your child current on their immunizations. Remember, on-time vaccination is critical for protecting against potentially life-threatening diseases like whooping cough (pertussis) and measles.

Access Your Child’s Vaccination Records

Visit the State of Connecticut Immunization Program here.

The CT WiZ Public Portal allows individuals who were vaccinated in Connecticut to access their immunization records, while parents and guardians can also access their minor child’s records.  Check your and/or your child’s immunization record here.

Together, we can ensure that all children are protected from vaccine-preventable diseases. This NIIW, let’s recommit to staying on track with childhood immunizations.

Flu Update: Busy Flu Season Continues as Nearly 80 New Cases Reported

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weekly flu update
In what continues to be one of the busiest flu seasons in recent memory, 79 new influenza cases have been identified in the 11 cities and towns of the Uncas Health District this flu season, according to March 15, 2024, data from the Connecticut Department of Health. This week’s reported numbers bring the flu season total to 811 cases in the district.
Those aged 18-49 years old represent the largest group for positive flu cases, comprising 286 of the total cases reported, followed by 5-17-year-olds with 174 cases. It is important to note that influenza cases are only reported if there is a hospitalization or if the positive test comes from a minor.

Even though spring has sprung, flu season is far from over. It is important to remain cautious, and it’s not too late to receive your flu vaccine. Vaccination is the single most effective way to protect yourself and others from the flu. Talk to your doctor today about getting vaccinated – it’s still your best defense against influenza. Remember to:

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after being in public places or around sick people.
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow to prevent spreading germs.
  • Stay home if you’re feeling unwell to avoid making others sick.

Stay safe and healthy!

Additional Flu Resources

Flu Update: 27 New Cases Reported This Week (Feb. 17)

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27 new influenza cases have been identified in the 11 cities and towns of the Uncas Health District this flu season, according to February 17, 2024, data from the Connecticut Department of Health. This week’s reported numbers bring the flu season total to 576 cases in the district.

Those aged 18-49 years old represent the largest group for positive flu cases, comprising 190 of the total cases reported, followed by 5-17-year-olds with 138 cases.

It is important to note that influenza cases are only reported if there is a hospitalization or if the positive test comes from a minor.

While the recent warm and sunny weather might feel like spring, eastern Connecticut is still very much in the thick of flu season. Flu activity is currently elevated and may continue to stay that way for several weeks.

So, don’t pack away those good habits just yet. Remember to:

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after being in public places or around sick people.
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow to prevent spreading germs.
  • Stay home if you’re feeling unwell to avoid making others sick.

And it’s not too late to get your flu shot. Vaccination is the single most effective way to protect yourself and others from the flu. Talk to your doctor today about getting vaccinated – it’s still your best defense against influenza.

Stay safe and healthy!

Flu Update: 58 New Cases Reported as Busy Flu Season Continues

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58 new influenza cases have been identified in the 11 cities and towns of the Uncas Health District this flu season, according to February 10, 2024, data from the Connecticut Department of Health. This week’s reported numbers bring the flu season total to 549 cases in the district.

Those aged 18-49 years old represent the largest group for positive flu cases, comprising 183 of the total cases reported, followed by 5-17-year-olds with 130 cases.

It is important to note that influenza cases are only reported if there is a hospitalization or if the positive test comes from a minor.

Flu Type 2-10-2024

While the recent warm and sunny weather might feel like spring, eastern Connecticut is still very much in the thick of flu season. Flu activity is currently elevated and may continue to stay that way for several weeks.

So, don’t pack away those good habits just yet. Remember to:

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after being in public places or around sick people.
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow to prevent spreading germs.
  • Stay home if you’re feeling unwell to avoid making others sick.

And it’s not too late to get your flu shot. Vaccination is the single most effective way to protect yourself and others from the flu. Talk to your doctor today about getting vaccinated – it’s still your best defense against influenza.

Stay safe and healthy!

Bringing Health Services to Your Community: Uncas Health District’s Mobile Health Team

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Uncas Mobile Health Team

The Uncas Health District is committed to ensuring the well-being of all residents in our community. That’s why we’re proud to offer the Mobile Health Team, a free program that brings essential healthcare services directly to your community. Through the Mobile Health Team, we’re bringing essential services directly to the people who need them most.

Your health is our priority.

The Mobile Health Team is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals who are passionate about helping individuals and families achieve optimal health and well-being. We believe everyone deserves access to quality healthcare, and that’s why we remove the barriers of transportation and cost by bringing our services directly to where you are.

MEET THE MOBILE HEATH TEAM

We are proud to serve the residents of Bozrah, Franklin, Griswold, Lebanon, Lisbon, Montville, Norwich, Preston, Salem, Sprague, and Voluntown. The Mobile Health Team operates by visiting soup kitchens, driving through food pantries, and senior centers to provide education and vital services:

  • COVID-19 and flu vaccines: Protect yourself and your loved ones from preventable illnesses.
  • Rapid testing for Hepatitis C and HIV: Get tested quickly and discreetly in a safe and supportive environment.
  • Syringe services: Access clean needles and harm reduction resources.
  • Tick testing: Stay informed about the risk of tick-borne diseases.
  • Blood pressure screenings: Monitor your heart health and take control of your well-being.
  • Smoking cessation support: Get the help you need to quit smoking for good.
  • Prevention of sexually transmitted infections: Learn how to protect yourself and your partner(s).
  • Education on public health topics: Stay informed about important health issues affecting our community.

CHECK OUT THE MOBILE HEALTH TEAM CALENDAR

No question is too small.

Individuals who visit us at these events can approach us with any questions they may have. We are here to listen and provide support, and we strive to link you to care whenever necessary. For instance, if a Hepatitis C or HIV test result is reactive (positive), the Mobile Health Team can connect you to the appropriate care provider, such as an ID clinic or another healthcare facility.

Prevention is key.

The Mobile Health Team focuses on providing screenings and preventative services to help individuals and families stay healthy and informed. Our primary objective is to keep our communities safe and educated on public health issues.

Taking care of your health has never been easier.

The Uncas Health District’s Mobile Health Team is here to help you stay on top of your health and well-being. Visit our website or call us at 860-823-1189 to learn more about our upcoming events and schedule your visit.

Additional information

  • All services are free and confidential.
  • Some services may require pre-registration.

Through the Uncas Health District’s Mobile Health Team, we’re bringing essential services directly to the people who need them most. By working together, we can create a healthier and happier community for everyone.