SPOKANE, Wash. - The Spokane Regional Health District hosted a Facebook Live session to address recent measles cases in the area, featuring Health Officer Doctor Francisco Velazquez and Epidemiologist Jenni Horecny. The discussion focused on how to keep children safe as they return to school.

Currently, there are four known exposure events in Spokane, with three of them occurring at Providence Sacred Heart in pediatric departments. The health district stressed the importance of vaccinations, especially with the rise of unvaccinated children.

Jenni Horecny highlighted the vaccination schedule.

"Usually that first dose is given around 12-15 months and a second dose around four to six years of age so right before kiddos are starting kindergarten. So making sure you're up to date with that because those two doses will provide over 95% protection against measles infection," Horecny stated.

The health officials also advised parents to watch for symptoms known as the three "C's": cough, coryza or runny nose, and conjunctivitis. They emphasized the importance of keeping sick children home to prevent further spread of the disease.

For more information on the Spokane Regional Health District and vaccination resources, visit their official website.

FOX28 Spokane©