BURLINGTON - The Western Racine County Health Department will offer free MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) immunizations to children through age 18 from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday at the department's offices, 156 E. State S., Burlington.

Several suspected cases of measles are currently being followed in Western Racine County. Health Department officials are urging residents to take advantage of the free clinic to get children up to date and stop the spread of measles, a very contagious disease.

Children traditionally receive one dose at age 12-15 months and the second dose at age 4-5 years. To be valid, the MMR doses must be given no earlier than 12 months of age, and at least 4 weeks from the previous MMR dose.

Two valid MMR immunizations are recommended for adults 19 and over. Adults needing an additional MMR should contact their physician. Individuals born prior to 1957 are considered immune and do not require any additional MMR immunizations.

Walworth County residents should call (262) 741-3140 and Kenosha County residents should call (262) 605-6700 to find immunization clinics in their areas.