MEASLES AWARENESS
We are aware that a confirmed case of measles has been reported in our Sumter community. At this time, there is no confirmation of exposure on any of our campuses; however, out of an abundance of caution and in coordination with the SC Department of Public Health guidance, we are sharing important information to help protect the health of our school district community.
What is Measles?
While the risk of illness is low for those that are fully vaccinated, measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically appear 7–12 days (but can be up to 21 days) after exposure. Current data from the South Carolina Department of Public Health indicates that approximately 97% of individuals who have contracted measles during this outbreak were unvaccinated.
Symptoms to Watch For:
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Fever (101.0 or above)
* Followed by a red rash two to three days later that starts on the face then spreads to the rest of the body.
*If you or your child develop these symptoms, please stay home, and contact your healthcare provider immediately for further guidance or refer to the SC DPH website below.
Unvaccinated individuals exposed to measles may be required to stay home from work, school, and all school-related activities for a quarantine period determined by the SC Department of Public Health, unless proof of MMR vaccination within 72 hours of exposure is presented.
Accepted proof of immunity includes:
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Birth before 1957
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Documentation of the age appropriate number of doses of the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine https://dph.sc.gov/public/
vaccinations/online-access- immunization-records -
A positive blood test showing protective antibodies (antibody titer test)
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A documented history of disease from a licensed healthcare provider
Please be assured that we are working closely with the SC Department of Public Health and will continue to follow their guidance. Up to date information can be found on the SC DPH Website: https://dph.sc.gov/diseases-
If you have questions or need assistance locating a provider for vaccination, please contact your Healthcare Provider, School Nurse, or District Lead Nurse Michelle DeVine, RN at 803-774-5500 ext. 100.