In order for staff to administer medication at school, please fill out this form and return it to the office with the medication in it's original packaging. All prescribed medications must have the prescription label on them, including inhalers.
Measles begins with a mild/moderate fever and feelings of exhaustion or malaise. Within 24 hours, other symptoms including cough, stuffy/runny nose, and red/watery eyes may appear. There may also be small white spots inside the mouth.
The measles rash usually appears 3-5 days after other symptoms (though can be anywhere from 1-7 days later). This rash is a mix of flat and raised spots that begin on the head, neck, or hairline and spread down the body. It may appear red/pink on light skin or brown/purple on darker skin. The rash does not usually itch and lasts about 5-6 days.
While fever may be mild early on, it is likely to increase after the rash appears. Temperatures may climb as high as 104°F.
How long does it take for someone exposed to measles to develop symptoms?
On average, someone who was exposed to measles might expect to see symptoms 11-12 days following their exposure, though this could range anywhere from 7-21 days.
How is measles spread?
Measles is spread from person to person through shared airspace or contact with oral or nasal secretions from an infected person. Individuals with measles are contagious 4 days before developing the measles rash until 4 days after the rash appears.
How contagious is measles?
Measles is one of the most contagious of all infectious diseases; more than 90% of unprotected contacts exposed to measles will develop illness. The measles virus can live in the air for several hours after a contagious person is present, even if they were only there for a short time.
How dangerous is measles?
Measles is a very serious disease, particularly for individuals without immunity. Severe complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, hearing loss, or miscarriage, can occur. About 1 in 5 measles cases will be hospitalized. 1 out of 1,00 people with measles will develop brain swelling, and 1-3 out of every 1,00 people with measles will die, even with medical care. Measles is especially dangerous in children under 5, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
What is considered immunity to measles?
In general, documented measles immunity means:
Birth before 1957
Lab result showing previous infection with measles
Lab result showing a positive titer (IgG)
2 doses of measles-containing vaccine for students in K-12 or in college, healthcare personnel, or regular/recent international travelers
1 dose of measles-containing vaccine for everyone else
Sometimes, complicated scenarios can make it hard to determine someone's immunity. In these situations, Columbia County's Health Officer may review and advise on a case-by-case basis.
How safe and effective is the measles vaccine?
Measles-containing vaccines (including MMR and MMRV vaccines) have been thoroughly studied and repeatedly found to be safe and highly effective. A single dose of vaccine is approximately 93% effective at preventing measles infection, while two doses are greater than 97% effective.
The risk of adverse effects following measles vaccination is much lower than the risk of complications from measles infection. Additionally, many carefully performed scientific studies have found no link between the MMR vaccine and autism.
I'm worried I/a member of my household may have measles. What should I do?
If you or someone in your household is showing signs of measles, separate that person from the rest of the household and ask them to wear a mask. Then, contact their healthcare provider for further evaluation. It is important to call ahead and let the provider know about the concern for measles so they can arrange to be seen in a way that avoids exposing others.
I was told that I/my child may be excluded from work/school if there is a measles case. What would this exclusion look like?
If it is determined a measles case was present at your school or workplace while contagious, individuals without evidence of immunity may be excluded for up to 21 days following their last exposure. This is an important step to prevent the spread of measles to others.
During this time, health officials may call you regularly to check on your health and screen for the development of measles symptoms. If you do not develop measles as a result of the exposure, you will be permitted to return after your 21-day exclusion, though you may be excluded again if re-exposed. If you develop measles as a result of an exposure, you will be permitted to return once it is determined you are no longer contagious.
I don't know if I'm immune to measles, or can't find my documentation of immunity. What should I do?
If you believe you have received measles immunizations but cannot find documentation, contact your health care provider or Columbia County Public Health; they may be able to locate your immunization records.
If you are unsure if you are immune to measles, a health care provider may be able to do a blood test to confirm. This is commonly referred to as a titer, IgG.
I have additional questions about measles. Who can I contact?
For general questions or to learn more about measles in Columbia County, contact Columbia County Public Health at 503-397-7247 or health@columbiacountyor.gov. If you have specific questions about your health or would like medical advice, contact a health care provider.
