Kasich Authorizes Pharmacists To Give MMR Vaccines

Governor Kasich has issued an executive order to let pharmacists administer vaccines for measles, mumps and rubella as two outbreaks continue to grow. Most of the nation's measles cases stem from an outbreak in unvaccinated Amish communities in Ohio. About 250 cases are confirmed. Separately, at least 415 mumps cases are reported in central Ohio, with 231 of those linked to Ohio State University. The mumps outbreak accounts for over 3/4 of all cases in the US. Kasich's Monday order eases access to the vaccinations for 90 days. It comes as the state's pharmacy board is seeking a similar rule change. The order would let licensed pharmacists administer the vaccines to those ages 18 and older. Currently, pharmacists can provide immunizations to adults for such illnesses as flu, tetanus and meningitis. Health officials are urging residents to be fully vaccinated.