Health Council Addresses Measles Outbreak Concerns
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Health experts in Tennessee are taking proactive steps to address growing concerns over the recent measles outbreak, even though no cases have been reported in the region.
The Tennessee Health Department’s Regional Health Council hosted a critical presentation this morning to educate the public and prevent the disease from reaching our communities.
Health Officer Dr. Stephen Miller stated that “you look at something simple like pneumonia, it would be somewhere on [one] side of the graph, you go a little bit further you’re talking about Covid, when you talk about measles it’s on the other side. You just need a few moments in the room with that person to be able to catch it or become a carrier of it (measles).”
Officials stress that measles is not just a childhood illness, it’s a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization, pneumonia, and even death.
With reported outbreaks in other states, they’re urging the community to stay informed and take preventative measures.
The Health Department is encouraging everyone to check their vaccination status and attend upcoming community immunization events.
Health officials say measles is preventable, but staying vigilant is key.
