CAMP HILL, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--With an increase in measles cases being reported in many parts of the country, Rite Aid announced today that Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccinations are available upon request at Rite Aid pharmacies nationwide based on Centers for Disease Control (CDC) vaccine guidelines and state regulations. No appointment is necessary and vaccinations from a Rite Aid certified immunizing pharmacist are available during normal pharmacy business hours.
As of April 11, 2019, there are currently 555 confirmed cases of measles, in the United States, according to the CDC. To learn more about the CDC’s vaccine guidelines and state regulations, patients can visit Rite Aid’s Vaccine Central at www.RiteAid.com/vaccinecentral, where they will find information about the immunizations available in their state, access educational resources on immunizations and complete a free immunization evaluation.
“At Rite Aid, all of our pharmacists are certified immunizers that can vaccinate patients against a number of diseases, including measles, based on CDC's vaccine guidelines and state regulations,” said Rite Aid vice president of clinical services, Summer Kerley. “Our focus is on providing value-based care that improves the health outcomes of patients and the communities where we operate and offering immunizations is a key component of that focus.”
According to the CDC, measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Measles starts with fever and soon causes a cough, runny nose and red eyes before a rash of tiny, red spots occurs.
The CDC recommends children get two doses of MMR vaccine, starting with the first dose at 12 through 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 through 6 years of age. Children can receive the second dose earlier as long as it is at least 28 days after the first dose. Adults who do not have evidence of immunity should get at least one dose of MMR vaccine. Pregnant women should not get MMR vaccine. Patients should consult their local Rite Aid pharmacist with any questions they may have.
About Rite Aid Corporation
Rite Aid Corporation (NYSE: RAD) is one of the nation's leading drugstore chains with fiscal 2019 annual revenues of $21.6 billion. Information about Rite Aid, including corporate background and press releases, is available through the company's website at www.riteaid.com.
