Measles and School: What You Need to Know

The health and safety of our students and staff are our top priorities. We want to share important information about measles, a serious illness that can spread quickly within a school environment. The most effective way to protect our school community is to ensure all students who can be vaccinated are vaccinated with the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine.
We strongly encourage all parents to review their child’s immunization records to ensure they are up-to-date on their MMR vaccination. If you have any questions about the MMR vaccine or your child’s immunization status, please do not hesitate to contact your family healthcare provider.
In the event a case of measles is confirmed in our school community, we will immediately collaborate with the Salt Lake County Health Department. Following their guidance is crucial for containing potential spread. This may include requiring unvaccinated individuals who have been identified as having been exposed to stay home for up to three weeks. This measure helps protect the broader community, especially those who are vulnerable, by preventing further transmission before symptoms appear.
Knowing the signs and symptoms of measles is also vital for early detection and response. Symptoms typically include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and a rash that usually appears a few days later. If your child develops these symptoms, please contact your healthcare provider and the school immediately.
For more detailed information on measles, including its symptoms and prevention, please visit the Utah Department of Health and Human Services dedicated page at Measles Response State of Utah. We appreciate your partnership in keeping our school community healthy and safe.