As Number of Measles and Mumps Cases Increase Statewide, Rite Aid Pharmacists Stand Ready to Immunize Under Governor Kasich’s Emergency Order
CAMP HILL, PA, 2014-7-2 — /EPR Retail News/ — In response to the increasing number of measles and mumps cases and under Ohio Governor John Kasich’s emergency order, Rite Aid pharmacists across Ohio are now able to administer the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine adults 18 and older. The Ohio Department of Public Health reported over 300 cases of measles and over 400 cases of mumps in the state1 representing significantly more cases that anywhere else in the country.
Under the emergency order, Rite Aid certified immunizing pharmacists in Ohio can vaccinate patients age 18 and older against measles, mumps and rubella as well as nine other diseases based on CDC vaccine guidelines.
MMR vaccinations are available at select Rite Aid pharmacies during pharmacy hours and no appointment is necessary. Cost varies based on the patient’s insurance coverage and the MMR vaccine is covered by many insurance plans.
Currently, more than 70 Rite Aid pharmacies in the following counties have the MMR vaccine available: Ashland, Ashtabula, Clark, Cuyahoga, Defiance, Erie, Geauga, Hardin, Huron, Knox, Lorain, Lucas, Medina, Montgomery, Ottowa, Portage, Richland, Sandusky, Seneca, Stark, Summit, Wayne and Wood. The MMR vaccine can be ordered at other Rite Aid pharmacies upon request. To locate the nearest Rite Aid pharmacy, visit www.riteaid.com or call 1-800-RITE-AID.
Although young children typically receive the MMR vaccine from their primary health care providers as part of a regular vaccine schedule, the CDC recommends that people 18 years of age or older who was born after 1956 should get at least one dose of MMR vaccine unless they have either been vaccinated previously or have had all three diseases. Pregnant women should not receive an MMR vaccine.
Rite Aid Corporation (NYSE: RAD) is one of the nation’s leading drugstore chains with nearly 4,600 stores in 31 states and the District of Columbia and fiscal 2014 annual revenues of $25.5 billion. Information about Rite Aid, including corporate background and press releases, is available through the company’s website at www.riteaid.com.
1. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/en/features/odhfeatures/Measles%202014.aspx
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Media: Kristin Kellum 717-975-5713