Measles (10 Day Measles, Rubeola) (Vaccine Preventable)

CAUSE:

Measles virus

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

An acute, highly communicable viral disease with a high fever, red runny eyes, a cough and Koplik spots (white spots) on the tongue and cheeks. A red blotchy rash appears on the third to seventh day, beginning on the face, and lasting four to seven days.

INCUBATION PERIOD:

About ten days, varying from seven to eighteen days, from exposure to fever and usually about fourteen days until rash appears.

MODE OF TRANSMISSION:

By droplet spread or direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of infected persons. Less commonly by airborne or soiled articles.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES:

Vaccine given according to current immunization guidelines. At the present time a second dose of measles vaccine is recommended for anyone born after 1957.

PERIOD OF COMMUNICABILITY:

From slightly before the beginning of development of signs and symptoms to 4 days after appearance of the rash.

IMPLICATIONS FOR SCHOOL:

Exclude from school. Student may not return to school without healthcare provider’s note. Immediately notify School Nurse. The Santa Barbara County Department of Public Health will investigate the case to verify if it is a measles case, and advise if a measles emergency must be declared. The Public Health Department will notify the School Nurse with any procedure that needs to be followed. If the Public Health Department notifies the Superintendent of a measles alert, procedures will then be implemented in conjunction with the Public Health Department and the School Nurse. Identify any immune suppressed students and notify parents and healthcare provider.