July 10, 2026
Media Contact: Chris Garrett, christopher.garrett@vdh.virginia.gov
Southside Health District Offering Measles, Mumps,
and Rubella (MMR) Immunization Clinic
CHASE CITY, Va. – Due to the current measles outbreak in Virginia, the Southside Health District will be offering a measles immunization, titer test, and education clinic at the Triangle Volunteer Fire Department located at 1051 Morton’s Ferry Road in Nathalie, Virginia. The clinic will be from 1-6 p.m. on Monday, July 27, 2026. The measles immunization is part of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. A measles titer will also be available for anyone wanting to check their immunity to measles.
“We are dedicated to serving our communities to help protect people of all ages from measles. We appreciate the outstanding staff with the Triangle Fire Department for partnering with us to help make this opportunity possible,” said Scott J. Spillmann, MD, MPH, Southside Health District health director.
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads easily through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after the infected person leaves the area. Measles symptoms include a cough, runny nose, rash, and sometimes red, itchy eyes. Measles is preventable through a safe and effective MMR vaccine. Two doses of the vaccine are given to provide long-lasting protection.
The measles vaccine is recommended in a two-dose series with the first dose at age 12–15 months and the second dose at 4–6 years of age. Adults born before 1957 are considered immune. If you are currently unvaccinated, you are encouraged to get your vaccination.
Vaccines are safe and effective. Immunizations are the best defense against infectious disease. Measles is a recent example. This highly contagious disease that was declared eliminated in the year 2000 is experiencing a surge in the U.S. with more than 2,170 confirmed cases reported so far this year, including 177 cases in Virginia.
An antibody titer test provides a measurement of the concentration of antibodies in your blood that target a specific pathogen, like the measles virus. When you are exposed to the virus, or receive the vaccine, your immune system will produce antibodies that enable you to resist infection. For measles, an antibody titer test involves the collection of a small volume of blood, which will be sent to a lab for processing; your medical provider or local health department will be able to provide additional information regarding the result and what it means for you.
The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) recommends that children are immunized in accordance with the 2026 American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Childhood and Adolescent Immunization Schedule. Vaccines are still required for school entry and remain the same as listed in the Code of Virginia. VDH encourages parents to talk with their child’s health care provider about recommended vaccinations.
Keeping children up to date on vaccinations can reduce severe illnesses, and unnecessary absences from school. Vaccines are available through pediatrician offices, pharmacies, and all local health departments. Check in advance to see if appointments may be necessary.
For more information, please contact the Halifax County Health Department at (434) 476-4863.