Ulster County Offers Free Measles Vaccination Clinic in Response to National Outbreak

Ellenville, NY — In response to a rising number of measles cases across the country and around the globe, the Ulster County Department of Health is hosting a free measles vaccination clinic on Tuesday, June 17, at The Trudy Center, located at 50 Center Street in Ellenville.

The clinic will be open during two sessions: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and again from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Trained nurses will administer first-time MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccinations for babies, children, and adults, as well as booster shots for residents born between 1963 and 1967, who may have received a less effective version of the vaccine prior to 1968.

This effort comes as the United States faces a significant measles resurgence, with over 1,000 cases reported in 34 states so far this year. Three deaths have been reported—the first measles-related fatalities in the U.S. in more than a decade. Measles is a highly contagious and potentially deadly disease, but it’s can be prevented with the MMR vaccine.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that nearly all recent U.S. measles cases have occurred in unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status. The CDC recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine: the first between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second between 4 and 6 years. Adults born in the mid-1960s are encouraged to check their records and consult with healthcare providers, especially if they plan to travel abroad or work in high-risk settings like healthcare or education.

No reservations are required for the clinic, but residents are encouraged to notify the organizers in advance to help ensure sufficient supply and staffing. For more information or to confirm attendance, contact Janet Nuñez, Trudy Center Site Program Manager, at (845) 210-8101 or via email at jnun@co.ulster.ny.us.

For general questions about measles or vaccinations, residents can also reach the Ulster County Department of Health at (845) 340-3070.