The health departments from all Bay Area counties urged people to get vaccinated against measles because of rising cases across the country.

But, Kentucky officials tell us the easiest way to prevent measles is to get vaccinated. “If you’ve had two doses of immunization, you’re 97% protected from even getting the disease,” Dr. Stack says. Officials say it is not too late to get the vaccine if you haven’t already.

Bay Area health officials came together Friday to urge residents in the region to get a measles vaccination if they never received one or if they avoided the disease as a child. In a statement, the Association of Health Officials said it was making the recommendation because measles cases are rising in the United States.

With measles cases rising in the United States in Texas and New Mexico, the Roanoke City and Alleghany Health districts are giving tips to take action. Measles is very contagious and dangerous for babies and young children.