Mumps-stricken Columbia campus plans vaccination clinic

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     (AP) – The University of Missouri is planning a mass immunization

clinic next week as it works to control a mumps outbreak that has grown to more

than 320 confirmed and probable cases.

     Spokesman Christian Basi says the hope is that 2,000 students will receive a

free booster shot during the Feb. 15 to Feb. 17 clinic. The state health agency

is picking up the tab.

     Students are required to receive two doses of the vaccine that protects

against mumps, as well as measles and rubella. But in December, the school began

urging students to obtain a third shot, saying it may offer more protection.

     Mumps is a viral infection that causes swelling in the salivary glands and

cheeks. The university is among several across the nation that has grappled with

outbreaks.




   

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