Dallas County health officials reported in an update Wednesday that the number of students and teachers at Cedar Hill High School have been identified as mumps cases.
Not all cases are Dallas County residents. Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) is reporting 39 mumps cases in Dallas County for 2017.
In addition, DCHHS has a separate total of 9 additional unrelated mumps cases in the city of Mesquite and Dallas.
DCHHS health officials are urging immunization to protect against and prevent the spread of mumps. People who have had two mumps vaccinations (such as two MMR vaccines) are usually considered immune from mumps.
A third dose of the MMR vaccine is only recommended by the CDC when an individual is associated with an ongoing outbreak.
“At two doses, the MMR vaccine is very impactful at 88% effectiveness,” said Dr. Christopher Perkins, Dallas County medical director/health authority. “A third dose is recommended if you have been associated with an outbreak. Ensuring you are up to date with your vaccination is the best protection in addition to washing hands frequently and cleaning/disinfecting objects or surfaces that may be contaminated with germs.”
DCHHS provides the first and second dose of the MMR vaccine for children and adults at the main clinic located at 2377 N. Stemmons Frwy in Dallas, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Individuals associated with an outbreak should call 214-819-2163 for a possible third dose.
“The increased number of mumps cases reported in the North Texas area underscore the importance of getting vaccinated,” said DCHHS Director Zachary Thompson.
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