Cherokee Nation, OSDH identify case of measles within the Cherokee Nation Reservation
In working with the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH), the Cherokee Nation was notified of a case of measles within the Cherokee Nation Reservation that was confirmed on April 24.
In working with the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH), the Cherokee Nation was notified of a case of measles within the Cherokee Nation Reservation that was confirmed on April 24.
Cherokee Nation Public Health and Cherokee Nation Health Services, working with the OSDH, are identifying and contacting individuals directly who may have been exposed during April 14-17, according to a press release issued by the Cherokee Nation.
The Tribe recommends that Cherokee citizens contact their primary care provider to ensure they are up to date with all vaccinations.
MMR vaccination is the most important tool to prevent measles. The vaccine is safe and effective in protecting someone from measles expected at 93% after the first age-appropriate dose, and 97% after the second.
According to the OSDH, as of April 25, there have been 15 cases of measles identified in Oklahoma.
The Cherokee Nation continues to prepare for any future potential measles cases and works diligently to ensure the best quality of health and well-being for its citizens and community partners.
Anyone who suspects they may have the measles or have been exposed to someone with measles should not walk into a clinic, hospital, or urgent care without calling first to protect others.
A fact sheet about the measles can be found at https://www.cherokeepublichealth.org/tiles/index/display?id=331903580629146701.
As a reminder, the measles vaccine is available to protect children and adults, and the Cherokee Nation recommends Cherokee citizens contact their primary care provider to ensure they are up to date with all vaccinations.
Parents may also contact the nearest Cherokee Nation Health Center should they need a vaccination for their child https://health.cherokee.org/health-center-and-hospital-locations/outpatient-care.
For questions on measles, contact Dr. David Gahn, Cherokee Nation Public Health Medical Director, at 918-7724262.
The OSDH also updates case data every Tuesday and Friday at noon and public exposure notifications are updated immediately as they are identified on https://oklahoma.gov/health/ health-education/acute-disease-service/rash-illness/measles.html.
