Norfolk Latino Music Festival returns July 19 to Town Point Park
Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. — The 25th Annual Norfolk Latino Music & Food Festival will be held Saturday, July 19, from 2pm to 11pm at Town Point Park along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront. The event is free & open to the public! The festival celebrates Hampton Roads ‘ vibrant Latin community by featuring dynamic live music performances, an eclectic offering of Latin cuisine, fun family-friendly activities, and much more.
This year’s musical lineup is headlined by Dominican American Freily eL F’ and will also feature performances by Grupo Ritmo Son, Kadencia, and DJ Nava! Additional entertainment includes interactive dance lessons, mini soccer pitches, board games, authentic arts & crafts, shopping, and more. Read below for the complete music lineup & the full list of food vendors.
Music Schedule
3:30 pm — DJ Nava
5:00 pm — Grupo Ritmo Son
6:30 pm — Kadencia
8:30 pm — Freily eL F’ Schedule and programming are subject to change.
Food
Ben and Jerry’s (Ice cream, brownies, and slushies)
Cuban Latin Grill (Rice and beans, jerk chicken, potato balls, sweet plantains, turkey legs, chicken wings, fries, meat patties, tamales, arepas, and pina colada stand)
Deep Fried (Roasted corn and funnel cake)
Hawaiian Sno (Shaved ice and lemonade)
Juan’s Café (Tacos de carne asada, al pastor, de tripa, de lengua, Birria tacos, street corn, carne asada fries, coctel de camaron, quesadillas, and churros)
Kitchenfinity (Empanadas, ceviche, Lomo saltado, tostones, flan, fruit cup)
Latin 2 Soul (Shrimp, BBQ, chicken, tacos, fried fish, fries, quesadillas, and more)
Miami Fusion (Cuban fusion, Cuban sandwich, picadillo, lechon, empanadas, quesadillas, and more)
Plaza Del Sol (Street tacos, quesadillas and nachos)
Smoothie Island (Smoothies served in pineapples, coconuts & watermelons)
Yolees G-Dawgz (Mexican-inspired hot dogs)
Retail
Badillos Latin Toys (Wooden toys, keychains, guitars, traditional Latin books, etc.)
Changing Faces & Spaces (Face paint and body art)
La Palmita Souvenirs (Hats, jerseys, cultural jewelry, handbags, etc.)
NuLand Hot Stuff (Hot sauce)
The Baby Alpaca (Alpaca sweaters, kids clothing, ceramic items, fanny packs, hats)
The 25th Annual Norfolk Latino Music & Food Festival is sponsored by the City of Norfolk, Southern Auto Group, Sentara Health Plans, 13 News Now, Old Dominion University Athletics, and Modelo. For more information on Norfolk Festevents’ 2025 Season of Events, visit Festevents.org.
Norfolk Festevents, Ltd., based in Norfolk, Virginia, is a private, not-for-profit organization dedicated to creating the most dynamic urban waterfront community in America through innovative programming and imaginative uses of its historic waterfront spaces. Norfolk Festevents has garnered international acclaim for its advocacy for public access to waterfronts, outstanding quality programming, and development of public spaces, transforming the City of Norfolk into one of the most progressive, diverse, and livable waterfront communities in the nation. Residents, workers, and visitors to Norfolk and Hampton Roads are invited to experience all the excitement of the 2025 season!
Noem honors Coast Guard heroes in Kerrville ceremony
Press Release
KERRVILLE, Texas — Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem presented military medals Friday to four U. S. Coast Guard aircrew members for their heroism during catastrophic flash flooding at Camp Mystic on July 4, 2025.
The ceremony recognized the courage, judgment and devotion to duty demonstrated by the aircrew members in the face of danger.
“This is what the men and women of the Coast Guard do,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. “The selfless courage of this crew embodies the spirit and mission of the U.S. Coast Guard.”
Heavy rainfall caused the Guadalupe River to rise 26 feet in 45 minutes, sweeping away cabins and stranding more than 200 campers at Camp Mystic. In response, Coast Guard members launched into action, battling heavy rain, near-zero visibility and rough terrain to save lives.
During the ceremony, Noem lauded the aircrew, stating their actions embody the highest ideals of service and sacrifice. She emphasized their extraordinary efforts ensured many lives were saved that day, and presented awards to:
Lt. Ian M. Hopper, aircraft commander, United States Coast Guard, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross: “As the Aircraft Commander aboard Coast Guard MH-65E helicopter 6553, Lieutenant Hopper was the first to launch into the storm. He battled extreme precipitation, near-zero visibility, and treacherous terrain, at one point losing visual reference and narrowly avoiding disaster before executing a harrowing instrument flight.”
Lt. Blair O. Ogujiofor, co-pilot, United States Coast Guard, was awarded the Air Medal: “As Co-Pilot aboard Coast Guard MH-65E helicopter 6553, Lieutenant Ogujiofor launched on the first Coast Guard aircraft to conduct rescue operations. She expertly coordinated all communications, aerial deconfliction, and obstacle avoidance while leading a formation of two medevac
helicopters through narrow valleys with limited visibility. Upon successfully landing after three perilous attempts to reach survivors, she deconflicted the flight paths of 12 helicopters in the immediate area to evacuate survivors.”
Petty Officer 3rd Class Scott C. Ruskan aviation survival technician, United States Coast Guard, was awarded the Distin-
guished Flying Cross: “As the Rescue Swimmer aboard Coast Guard MH-65E helicopter 6553, Petty Officer Ruskan launched on the first Coast Guard aircraft, making three perilous attempts to reach survivors. Facing rising floodwaters and unstable terrain, he volunteered to remain on the ground at a critical moment in the rescue operation, putting his own safety at great risk. As the
sole first responder at the chaotic Camp Mystic evacuation landing zone, Petty Officer Ruskan overcame crippled communications and dangerous conditions to triage survivors. He expertly coordinated the evacuation of 169 people, working with a dozen rotary-wing aircraft from the Department
(PHOTOS COURTESY FESTEVENTS)
Secretary Kristi Noem presents medals to Lieutenant Ian Hopper, Lieutenant Blair Oguiofor, Petty Officer 3rd Class Scott Ruskan, and Petty Officer 3rd Class Seth Reece of Air Station Corpus Christi
FREE Virginia Beach Funk Fest
Press Release
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — The City of Virginia Beach, Beach Events, and IMGoing are pleased to announce the full lineup of artists performing at the 2025 Virginia Beach Funk Fest Beach Party. This years show is Friday, August 22 & Saturday, August 23 on the Beach at 24th and 25th Streets. Preferred viewing tickets are on sale at BeachEventsVB. com. General Admission is FREE!
For more than 15 years, the Virginia Beach Funk Fest Beach Party has brought the “funk” to the Oceanfront for two days of electrifying music, great food, and unique vendors. Music
of Defense, federal, and state partners across two landing zones.”
Petty Officer 3rd Class Seth N. Reeves, aviation maintenance technician, United States Coast Guard, was awarded the Air Medal: “As the Flight Mechanic aboard Coast Guard MH-65E helicopter 6553, Petty Officer Reeves’s swift actions proved essential to mission success. Responding to the urgent call, he identified a mission-critical aircraft malfunction in the designated helicopter and, with no time to spare, expertly prepared a second aircraft, ensuring the timely launch of the rescue effort. Facing extreme precipitation, near-zero visibility, and rising terrain, he vigilantly assisted the pilots, utilizing road maps to navigate below the cloud layer and keep the aircraft clear of obstacles.”
“In the face of devastating floods in Texas, this Coast Guard aircrew’s courageous actions saved lives and reaffirmed our vital role in protecting American communities,” said Adm. Kevin Lunday, acting commandant, U.S. Coast Guard. Continuing the Coast Guard’s work as
is the heart and soul of the festival. Chuck Brown Band, Angela Winbush and Shalamar kick-off the festival on Friday, August 22, beginning at 6:30pm. Mass Production, The Blackbyrds and Zapp close out the festival on Saturday, August 23, starting at 6:30pm. Doors open at 4:30pm both nights.
The Virginia Beach Funk Fest Beach Party is presented by the City of Virginia Beach and produced by IMGoing. About Beach Events: Beach Events is the entertainment program presented by the City of Virginia Beach, featuring concerts, festivals, and family activities held at the Oceanfront resort area. A full array of events,
America’s maritime first responder, the combined efforts of this aircrew, working in coordination with federal and state partners, resulted in the rescue of 18 people and supported the rescue of 169 others.
About the U.S. Coast Guard: With more than 95,000 miles of shoreline, 25,000 miles of navigable rivers and 4.5 million square miles of U.S. exclusive economic zone, the U.S. Coast Guard defends the Nation, protects the marine transportation system, regulates and safeguards ports and waterways, leads the Nation in drug interdiction and secures the maritime border. As a member of the joint force, a law enforcement organization, a regulatory agency and a member of the U.S. intelligence community, the Coast Guard employs a unique mix of authorities to ensure the safety and integrity of the maritime domain to protect the economic and national security of the nation.
The more than 55,000 members of the Coast Guard operate a multi-mission, interoperable fleet of more than 250 cutters, 200 fixed and rotary-wing aircraft, 1,600 boats and its own dedicated cyber command to protect critical maritime infrastructure.
More information about the U.S. Coast Guard can be found at www.uscg.mil.
ranging from the Monsters on the Beach monster truck races to a whole festival with tribute bands in July to a holiday light display along the boardwalk means there’s truly something for everyone.
Beginning in May through Labor Day Weekend, the wildly popular Live! On Atlantic program thrills audiences right on the sidewalks of Atlantic Avenue with magicians, jugglers, musicians, costumed characters, and more. When it comes to entertainment, “all the world’s a stage” at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and most of it is FREE!
* Please note, concert lineups are subject to change.
Follow @USCG on X and Instagram, like us on Facebook, subscribe on YouTube and follow LinkedIn — connect with us.
Secretary Kristi Noem presents medals to Lieutenant Ian Hopper, Lieutenant Blair Oguiofor, Petty Officer 3rd Class Scott Ruskan, and Petty Officer 3rd Class Seth Reece of Air Station Corpus Christi during a ceremony on July 11, 2025. The medals
recognize their roles in the Camp Mystic rescue on July 4, when Coast Guard crews evacuated dozens of campers and staff amid flash
at the Guadalupe River. (U.S. COAST
PHOTO BY PETTY OFFICER 3RD CLASS
Kerrville from Page 1
PressRelease
NORFOLK Va SevenVenuesisexcited
to announce that Fantasia and Anthony Hamilton will perform for one night only onOctober18,2025at8p.m.Ticketsonsale now at The Scope Arena Box Office and Ticketmaster.com. The Scope Arena box officeislocatedintheScopeparkinggarage at201E.BrambletonAve,Norfolk,VA23510
ItiscurrentlyopenMondaythroughFriday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit sevenvenues.com/events or call 757.664.6464
Fantasia followed her 2004 “American Idol” win with the release of her platinum selling debut album “Free Yourself” and became the first artist in the history of the Billboard Hot 100 chart to debut at #1 with her first single “I Believe.” While “Truth,” the second single from the album, also claimed the #1 spot and remained for 14 weeks Since the release of “Free Yourself,” Fantasiahasgoneontoreleasesixadditional studioalbums,includingherself-titlesoph-
Fantasiafirstbrokeontothescenein2004, enteringeveryheartandhome,astheSeason 3 winner of “American Idol.” In addition to her two GRAMMY® Award wins, Fantasia has been nominated numerous times by the Recording Academy, NAACP Image Awards AmericanMusicAwards,Billboard MusicAwards andSoulTrainAwards with two Billboard Music Award wins and four NAACP Image Award wins Fantasia was recently recognized as one of Time100’s Most Influential People of 2024 and in 2023 was selected as one of the entertainmentindustry’sbrighteststarsbyVarietyfor their“PowerofWomen”honorandfeatured as one of Elle Magazine’s 2023 “Women in Hollywood.” ReprisingherBroadwayrole inhermajor motion picture debut, Fantasia dazzled in the lead role of ‘Celie’ in Warner Bros’ modern adaptation of “The Color Purple, with the second-biggest Christmas Day opening in box office history For her starring role, Fantasia was honored with the prestigious‘OutstandingActressinaMotion Picture’ award at the 55th NAACP Image Awardsceremonyandreceivednominations from BAFTA for ‘Best Leading Actress’ and TheGoldenGlobesfor‘BestPerformanceby aFemaleActorinaMotionPicture,Musical orComedy’aswellas‘DramaMovieStarof the Year’ from the People’s Choice Awards The cast was recognized at the Critics’ ChoiceAwardsCelebrationofCinema&TV with the Ensemble Award while garnering nominationsfrombothSAGandtheCritics’ ChoiceAssociation.
omore effort “Back to Me” (2011), which featured the GRAMMY® Award winning single “Bittersweet.” Fantasia’s fifth studio album“TheDefinitionof…”(2016)debuted at#1onBillboard’sR&Bchartand#6onBillboard’sTop200chart,withherfirstholiday album “Christmas After Midnight (2017) accompanied by a sold-out holiday tour Fantasia has enjoyed chart topping triple platinum and multi-platform success since her2004win.
Joining Fantasia is GRAMMY® Award winning singer, songwriter, producer, and actor,AnthonyHamilton,whohasachieved global sales of over 50 million albums The NorthCarolinaMusicHallofFameinductee notably performed for President Barack ObamaandFirstLadyMichelle cementing his place in the history books as the “narrator of love.” He made his film debut in the critically acclaimed
Savory summertime salad and sandwiches
Upgrade summer lunches with nutritious twists on grilled cheese
By Family Features
Source: Healthy Family Project
When the kids are home for summer break, meal-prep becomes a must for busy families to ensure nutritious foods are on the menu. This summer, give your kiddos the fuel they need for all their warm-weather activities and adventures with a healthy twist on a childhood classic.
One bite into a grilled cheese sandwich and you’re back in your childhood kitchen, bringing all the nostalgic vibes you can pass down to your little ones. Plus, with nearly endless combinations, there’s a solution for everyone from classics to creative versions.
Fruit in a grilled cheese may not be the first idea that comes to mind, but these Blackberry Grilled Cheese Sandwiches offer a juicy, slightly tart burst of flavor tucked between crunchy slices of bread. It’s a sweet, savory lunch that’s just funky enough to impress while putting fresh produce on your kids’ plates.
“We love juicy blackberries - not just because they’re delicious, but because they’re packed with fiber,” registered dietitian Tony Castillo said. “That fiber helps keep you full, supports gut health and keeps your energy steady. Plus, blackberries are loaded with antioxidants and vitamin C, making them a true superfood. They’re perfect for baking, savory dishes or just as a snack on the go.”
Picky eaters have met their match with Chicken and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwiches. Tender shredded chicken meets tart apple slices, ooey gooey cheese and whole-grain bread for an unexpected twist that will have taste buds tingling. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, they’re ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekend lunches.
If you’re aiming to upgrade your cheesy sandwich arsenal, consider these tips from Healthy Family Project:
Cook low and slow over medium-low heat so the bread reaches a crisp golden while cheese melts to perfection.
Real butter or olive oil adds a level of crispiness and flavor.
Experimenting with cheese can give sandwiches an extra boost. Cheddar is the classic option, but mozzarella, gouda and brie bring newfound flavor profiles.
Look for the Produce for Kids or Healthy Family Project logo in your local grocery store to find brands dedicated to creating a healthier generation. Serve up more delicious, kid-friendly lunches this summer by visiting HealthyFamilyProject.com.
Blackberry Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Recipe courtesy of Healthy Family Project
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 tablespoon stone-ground mustard
4 slices whole-grain bread
2 slices provolone cheese
10-12 blackberries, cut in half
Heat medium skillet over low heat.
In small bowl, mix mayonnaise and mustard; spread on one side of each slice of bread. Place bread mayo-side-down in skillet. Top with cheese and blackberries. Add second slice of bread mayo-side-up. Cook 3-4 minutes per side, or until bread is toasted and cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Chicken and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Recipe courtesy of Healthy Family Project
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
8 slices whole-grain bread
8 ounces sliced rotisserie-style chicken breast
4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
1 apple, thinly sliced
prepared salad, for serving
Heat large skillet over medium-low heat.
Lightly butter one side of each slice of bread. Place bread butter-side-down in skillet. Top with chicken, cheese and apple slices. Top with slice of bread butter-side-up. Cook 2-3 minutes, flip and cook 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
Remove from heat and cut in half. Repeat with remaining sandwiches. Serve with prepared salad.
Double the flavor with this summertime favorite
By Family Features
Source: Wonder Bread
Take an all-American creation up a notch this summer by doubling the burger fun with this fan-favorite version.
These All-American Double Bacon and Cheddar Smash Burgers, created by Wonder in partnership with The McLemore Boys, give you an opportunity to fire up the grill, gather the family and savor the flavor of a summer favorite. Pro tip: For an even bigger punch, chop half the bacon before cooking it and add to the patty mixture. Discover more ways to enhance grilled summer favorites by visiting WonderBread.com/recipes.
All-American Double Bacon and Cheddar Smash Burgers
Recipe courtesy of The McLemore Boys on behalf of Wonder Servings: 4
4 Wonder Classic Hamburger Buns
2 pounds angus beef
2 large eggs, beaten
1 tablespoon McLemore Boys Sweet Rub
1/4 cup sweet barbecue sauce
8 slices cheddar cheese
1 pound bacon, halved lengthwise
mayonnaise
1 large tomato, sliced
1 head lettuce
kosher salt
black pepper
Heat griddle to high heat. Toast buns on griddle until golden brown. Set aside. In large bowl, combine ground beef, eggs and sweet rub; mix evenly. Form meat mixture into eight 4-ounce balls. Place balls on griddle and smash with spatula. Cook 5 minutes, flip and brush with barbecue sauce. Cook 5 minutes, or until burgers reach medium doneness. Place cheese slices on burgers for last 2 minutes to melt. Assemble bacon in 3-by-3 weave. Cook alongside burgers to desired crispiness.
To build burgers, spread buns with mayo, add first burger then mini bacon weave, second burger, tomato, lettuce and sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Crown it with top bun and gently press.
Go light for lunch with a summery salad
By Family Features
Source: Culinary.net
Make broccoli the star of summer with this light lunch idea, a Broccoli Salad from “Cookin’ Savvy” made with a simple homemade dressing. Find more ways to make this season’s meals a breeze by visiting Culinary.net.
Broccoli Salad
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Servings: 4-6
2 medium heads broccoli
2 apples
lemon juice
1 carrot
1 cup blueberries
1 cup dried cranberries
1 cup sunflower seeds
1 cup pecans
1 package (2 1/2 ounces) real bacon pieces
Dressing:
1 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup milk
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
2/3 cup sugar
2 tablespoons poppy seeds
Coarsely chop broccoli and place in large bowl. Coarsely chop apples and brush with lemon juice to prevent browning; add to bowl. Shred carrot and add to bowl with blueberries, cranberries, sunflower seeds, pecans and bacon. To make dressing: Mix mayonnaise, milk, apple cider vinegar, sugar and poppy seeds. Pour over broccoli salad and mix well.
Unlock your health as you approach Medicare eligibility
ByTRICARECommunications
FALLS CHURCH, Va Are you approaching the age of 65? Unlock your health by signing up for Medicare as soon as you’re eligible Medicare Part A and Part B are required to remain eligible for TRICARE,withlimitedexceptions Knowing how and when to sign up for Medicare willhelpyouavoidgapsincoverageandlate enrollmentpenalties
“Signing up for Medicare three or four monthsbeforeyour65thbirthdayisimportant to ensure a seamless transition to TRICAREForLife,”saidAnneBreslin TFL programmanager,TRICAREHealthPlan,at the Defense Health Agency “Medicare and TRICARE will then work together to help minimizeyourout-of-pocketexpenses.”
Understanding eligibility
Most people become eligible for Medicare the first day of the month they turn 65 Thosewithabirthdayonthefirstofamonth becomeeligiblethefirstofthemonthbefore theyturn65
Some become eligible for Medicare beforeage65afterreceivingSocialSecurity DisabilityInsurancefor24monthsorwhen diagnosedwithcertainmedicalconditions
TFL is available to military retirees and their family members who qualify for TRICARE, are entitled to Medicare Part A, andhaveMedicarePartB,regardlessofage orplaceofresidence.Youcansignuponthe Social Security Administration website or bycallingSSAtoscheduleanappointment LearnmorebyreadingtheTRICAREand Medicare Under Age 65 Brochure (online at https://www.tricare.mil/Publications/ Brochures/medicare_under_65).
If you (or your spouse) are still working andhaveemployer-sponsoredhealthcoverage when you turn 65, Medicare allows you todelayenrollmentinMedicarePartB.But if you do delay enrollment, you won’t have TRICAREcoverage Answerafewquestions ontheMedicarewebpagetofindoutwhat’s rightforyou.
Ifonefamilymemberbecomeseligiblefor MedicareandisnowcoveredbyTFL other familymembersnotyeteligibleforMedicare can still use TRICARE Prime or TRICARE Select. Avoid penalties
It’simportanttosignupforMedicarePart AandPartBduringyourInitialEnrollment
Period, which is seven months long This is when you’re first eligible to sign up for Medicare Part A and Part B. It starts three or four months before you turn 65 Learn more about late enrollment penalties and howtoavoidthem.
To avoid coverage gaps keep your information current in the Defense Enrollment EligibilitySystem.Thisensuresyoureceive timelyupdatesandbenefitsinformation. Sign up for Medicare no later than two months before the month you turn 65 to avoid a break in your TRICARE coverage. There are no enrollment forms or fees required for TFL —it begins automatically thefirstdateMedicarePartAandPartBare effective.
To learn more, check out the TRICARE andMedicareTurningAge65Brochure.
What parts of Medicare do you need?
TobeeligibleforTFL,youmusthaveboth MedicarePartAandPartB.
PartAtypicallycovers: Inpatienthospitalcare Skillednursingfacilities
Hospice
Somehomehealthcare
Most people get Part A premium-free if they,ortheirspouse,workedandpaidSocial
Securitytaxesforatleast10years
MedicarePartBcovers:
Outpatientcare
Certainpreventiveservices
Durablemedicalequipment
Part B has a monthly premium based on yourincome
You don’t need to enroll in Medicare Advantage (Part C) or prescription drug coverage (Part D) to have TFL coverage
Read the TRICARE Newsroom article
“Q&A: How Does TRICARE For Life Work
With Medicare?” (online at https://newsroom.tricare.mil/News/TRICARE-News/ Article/3617884/qa-how-does-tricare-forlife-work-with-medicare)tolearnmore.
For dental and vision coverage check to see if you qualify through the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program.
Coverage overseas
Medicare only provides coverage in the U.S. and U.S. territories If you live or travel overseas TRICAREbecomesyourprimary payer. That means you’ll pay TRICARE’s annual deductible and cost for care abroad. You must still have Medicare Part B to remain eligible for TFL, even though it doesn’tpayforcare
Here’s what else to keep in mind if you haveTFLandliveortraveloverseas:
You may visit any TRICARE-authorized providerforcare.
If you’re in the Philippines, you must see aPhilippinePreferredProviderNetworkor certifiedproviders
Be prepared to pay for services up front. You’llneedtofileaclaimlater.
You have up to three years to file claims foroverseascare.
Which pays first: Medicare or TRICARE?
WhenbothMedicareandTRICAREcover ahealthcareservice,Medicarepaysfirstand TRICAREpayssecond.TRICAREmayalso coverservicesthatMedicaredoesn’t.That’s whyit’simportanttoconfirmyou’recovered by Medicare, TRICARE, or both—to help avoidcosts You’ll also need to use Medicare providers CheckoutTRICARE’scoveredservices tolearnmore.
Coordination with other health insurance
Other health insurance, or OHI, is coverage in addition to Medicare and TFL. This might be offered by an employer, based on current employment or retirement for you oryourspouse How Medicare coordinates with OHI depends on whether the OHI is based on current employment. In either case, TRICAREpayslast.
Unlockyourhealth—andpeaceofmind— by understanding how TFL and Medicare work together, as described in the MedicarepublicationHowMedicareWorksWith Other Insurance You can view or print the booklet or call 800-MEDICARE (800-6334227) to find out if a copy can be mailed to you. For more information, check out the TRICARE For Life Handbook (online at https://tricare.mil/Publications/Handbooks/tricare_for_life)andBecomingMedicare-Eligible(onlineathttps://www.tricare. mil/medicare).
ByTRICARECommunications
FALLS CHURCH, Va Note: This article was originally published April 17, 2025 ItwasupdatedandrepublishedJuly11with informationaboutthecurrentmeaslescase count in the U.S. You may have heard about the ongoing measles outbreak in the U.S. As of July 8, there have been 1,288 confirmed cases in 2025, according to the Centers for Disease ControlandPrevention.Whilemostofthese cases are in Texas, cases have been rising acrossthecountry
Anyone who isn’t protected against measlescangettheillness—andchildrenare especially at risk of getting seriously sick
You may be wondering how to keep your familysafe
“Measles is more than just a rash; it can lead to severe illness, and it’s extremely contagious—youcancatchitjustfrombeing in the same room as an infected person,” explained Dr Eric Deussing, Public Health Emergency Officer for the Defense Health Agency “So, it’s important to take steps to keep you and your loved ones protected andlearnhowtorecognizepotentialsymptoms Twodosesofthemeasles,mumps,and rubella, or MMR, vaccine provide the best protectionagainstmeasles.” Here’swhatyouneedtoknow.
What is measles?
Measlesisahighlycontagiousillnessthat can cause serious complications It spreads through the air when an infected person coughsorsneezes—sometimes,thishappens uptofourdaysbeforethey’reevenshowing symptoms
People of any age can get serious cases of measles But the following groups are at increasedriskforcomplications:
Childrenyoungerthanage5
Adultsolderthanage20
Pregnantwomen
Peoplewithweakenedimmunesystems Recognizing measles signs and symptoms
Measles symptoms usually appear betweensevenand14daysafterinfection Initialsymptomstypicallyinclude:
Highfever(sometimesabove104degrees)
Cough
Runnynose
Red,wateryeyes Twotothreedaysafterthestartofsymp-
toms you may see tiny white spots (Koplik spots)inyourmouth. Inthreetofivedays youmaydevelopthe measlesrash—flatredspotsthatusuallystart ontheface,andthenspreaddownthebody towardsthefeet. Common complications of measles are ear infections and diarrhea. More severe complications can include pneumonia, swelling of the brain, and other conditions thatcanleadtohospitalization Areyouorafamilymembershowingsigns ofmeasles?CalltheMilitaryHealthSystem Nurse Advice Line at 800-TRICARE (8742273). Describe your symptoms to a registered nurse, who can advise you on what to donext.
Preventing measles
Your best defense against measles is getting vaccinated. Most people who got their vaccination have protection against measlesforlife,asdescribedbytheCDC
The measles, mumps, and rubella, or MMR, vaccine protects against measles as
well as mumps and rubella. This vaccine is availabletothoseolderthan12monthsold.
The measles mumps, rubella, and varicella, or MMRV, vaccine protects against these illnesses as well as chickenpox. This vaccine is only available to children 12 monthsoldthrough12yearsold. Both the MMR and MMRV vaccines are administered in two doses Children under age 12 should get the first dose between 12 and15monthsold,andthesecondbetween 4and6yearsold.(Childrenmayalsogetthe MMRVseconddosethreemonthsafterthe firstdose.)
Older children, teenagers, and adults should get one or two doses of the MMR vaccineiftheydon’thaveevidenceofimmunity (Note:You’reconsideredimmuneifyou were born before 1957, since it’s likely you were infected naturally.) Doses should be givenatleast28daysapart.
TRICARE covers age-appropriate doses of these vaccines, as recommended by the CDC You don’t need a referral or other approvaltogetthesevaccines.Asdescribed intheTRICAREPharmacyProgramHand-
book (online at https://tricare.mil/Publications/Handbooks/pharmacy), you can get thesevaccinesatnocost,aslongasyou: Gotoamilitaryhospitalorclinic.
Go to a TRICARE retail network pharmacy Make sure the person who gives you the vaccine is a pharmacist. If another type of provider gives you a vaccine at a retail pharmacy,youmayhaveout-of-pocketcosts See a TRICARE-authorized civilian provider However,ifyougetotherservices atthesametime youmayhavetopaycopaymentsorcost-shares Thesecostsvarybased onyourhealthplan.
Ifyouliveoverseas,youcangetvaccinated atyourlocalmilitaryhospitalorclinicorby aTRICARE-authorizedcivilianprovider
Do you have more questions about the measles or getting an MMR or MMRV vaccine for yourself or your child? Talk to your healthcare provider or contact the MHSNurseAdviceLine Would you like the latest TRICARE news sent to you by email? Visit TRICARE Subscriptionsandsignuptoreceivebenefit newsandupdates
