In response to the growing number of measles cases across the United States, Project ECHO, in partnership with Indian Country ECHO, has launched a three-part webinar series aimed at supporting health systems in outbreak preparedness and response.
Launched March 26, the series provides timely updates and expert-led discussions on measles identification, clinical care and culturally relevant prevention strategies for American Indian and Alaska Native communities. Participants will learn actionable strategies to strengthen the health care system response and immunization outreach efforts to impacted communities.
An adult male’s hands exhibiting the characteristic red, blotchy rash of measles. Amid recent outbreaks in the United States, recognizing symptoms in adults is crucial for prompt diagnosis and preventing further transmission. Photo credit: Adobe Stock
The series aims to increase providers’ confidence in effectively responding to measles outbreaks in their community and developing culturally tailored communications about the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. It is geared toward clinical and support staff who work in the Indian Health Service, the Tribal and Urban Indian Health Centers, and state immunization program managers.
Nearly 1,300 people attended the first session, underscoring the critical importance of addressing the current measles outbreak. The session featured nationally-recognized experts who provided insights into current measles trends, clinical presentation and diagnosis, infection control protocols, and vaccination best practices.
The following two sessions will include: updates and perspectives from state immunization programs in New Mexico and Oklahoma who are currently responding to measles outbreaks, tribal response efforts, and experts in building trust and developing culturally-tailored communications about vaccines.
Upcoming Sessions:
- April 2: Vaccine outreach and response strategies, featuring: Andrea Romero, Dr. Diana Hu, Myka Saltsman and Dr. Michelle Fiscus.
- April 9: Vaccine communication strategies, featuring: Dr. Todd Wolynn, Dr. Chelsea Kettering, Dr. Lakota Scott and Dr. Michelle Fiscus.
Interested health care providers can join for the last two sessions at no cost; register here.
With questions about Project ECHO in Indian Country, email the program team.
ABOUT PROJECT ECHO
Project ECHO is a global movement to democratize medical knowledge and amplify the capacity of providers to deliver best-practice care in underserved communities. This partnership with Indian Country ECHO reflects an ongoing mission to build workforce capacity and respond to pressing public health challenges.
ABOUT INDIAN COUNTRY ECHO
Indian Country ECHO is transforming health care in Indian Country by dramatically increasing access to best-practice care in reservation, rural, and underserved areas. This program focuses on implementing telehealth—particularly using the ECHO Model of care—to provide frontline healthcare workers with the knowledge and support they need to manage patients with, and prevent, complex conditions.
Featured image: A young child exhibiting the characteristic red rash of measles. The current outbreak in the United States has led to significant increases in infections, emphasizing the critical need for vaccination and public awareness. Photo credit: Abode Stock