Benson High School

Information provided by Multnomah, Clackamas and Washington county health departments.

The current measles outbreak in Clark County, Washington, raises questions about what parents should know to keep their children safe, and what their school will do if a case of measles is confirmed at their site. 

Here are some important points to keep in mind:

Measles is highly contagious. If a case is confirmed in a school or child care center, the health department will review all staff and student vaccination records to determine the risk of further spread.

Keeping children in school/childcare is a priority, but measles is a serious disease. If an unvaccinated person is exposed to measles, they will not be allowed to go to school or child care during the time period when they could become sick, usually for 21 days after exposure. This may be extended if there are more measles cases.

People excluded from school or childcare after a measles exposure are asked to stay home to avoid exposing others in the community.

Now is a great time for all families, teachers, and school administrators to review their vaccine records and get their vaccines up to date.

Anyone with questions about measles infection or the measles vaccine should call their primary care provider or their local county health department:

• Multnomah County Public Health, 503-988-3406
• Washington County Public Health, 503-846-3594
• Clackamas County Public Health, 503-644-8411

For additional information, visit the Multnomah County Health Department website.

Sincerely,
Jennifer Vines, MD, MPH
Deputy Health Officer
Multnomah County Health Department