(COLDWATER) – A local health organization is reminding Michigan residents to make sure they have been vaccinated for the measles.

Two cases of measles have been announced in Michigan. One was on March 14 in Oakland County, and a second on Wednesday in Kent County.

With that in mind, the Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency is urging all residents in the tri-county area who are not vaccinated to get the measles vaccine. In addition if you don’t know if you have been vaccinated against measles, please discuss it with your health care provider or one of the CHA Public Health Nurses.

Adults can check on their own or their child’s vaccine status by contacting your local CHA office or by going online. LINKA.

Signs and symptoms of Measles can begin with a high fever, red eyes, cough, runny nose, and is followed by a red, raised body rash starting on the head and face that then spreads to the rest of the body. Measles patients often experience eye pain and sensitivity to light. Cases can be contagious a few days before the rash appears, which increases the possibility of exposing others without knowing.

Immunization is the best way to protect yourself and others from getting the measles. The measles vaccine is highly effective and very safe.

Children and adults can get vaccinations at any of the CHA offices. To schedule an appointment and for immunization questions, please give your local office a call.

In St. Joseph County, the number is 269-273-2161, extension 208; in Branch County you can call 517-279-9561, extension 100 and in Hillsdale County, the number is 517-437-7395, extension 336.