The Arkansas Department of Health has recorded three confirmed cases of measles within the state, as well as potential exposures from out-of-state travelers in northwest Arkansas. All confirmed cases in the region were among children who had not received vaccinations.
Dr. Jana Shaw is a professor of pediatrics at SUNY Upstate Medical University in New York. She said that while she understands everyone has individual concerns, the vaccine has been proven safe, and common side effects are much milder than the illness itself.
The common side effects include redness and swelling at the injection site, as well as a mild fever. The recommended age for children to receive the first dose is 12-15 months, with a second dose at 4-6 years of age. Shaw said at-risk children could be vaccinated earlier in special cases, if parents are concerned.
Shaw says adults concerned about the resurgence of measles and their own health should consult their doctor. Anyone vaccinated before the year 1968 may be a candidate for a booster.
Since publication, the Arkansas Department of Health has identified a fourth case of measles in Arkansas.
