BAINBRIDGE, PA. —
A Lancaster County student has tested positive for measles.
The student attends Bainbridge Elementary School, according to the Elizabethtown Area School District.
“The District had planned to share this information with Bainbridge families later today. As a courtesy, the information was shared internally with District employees as a first look at the planned communication to families and was not intended for external distribution prior to notification to families,” a letter to families states. “Unfortunately, the information was shared outside of the District, resulting in media coverage before we had the opportunity to communicate directly with families. We regret that some families may have had prior knowledge of the situation through the media. As a result, we are sending this communication earlier than originally planned.”
Here is the full letter:
Dear Bainbridge Elementary School Families,
The Elizabethtown Area School District has been notified that a student at Bainbridge Elementary School has tested positive for measles. We share this information so families are aware of the confirmed case and can monitor for symptoms.
The district planned to share this information with Bainbridge families later today. As a courtesy, the information was shared internally with district employees as a first look at planned communication to families and was not intended for external distribution prior to notification to families. Unfortunately, the information was shared outside of the District, resulting in media coverage before we had the opportunity to communicate directly with families. We regret that some families were initially aware of the situation through media reports. As a result, we are sending this communication earlier than initially planned.
Because measles can be spread through the air and is highly contagious, we encourage Bainbridge families to be aware of the symptoms, both for their children and other members of their household.
About measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that is spread through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. Symptoms usually start with:
- Fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- A red, blotchy rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body
Symptoms may develop up to 21 days after exposure. The MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine provides protection against measles. Bainbridge Elementary School has a high rate of measles vaccination among its student population.
What families should know
We encourage families to be aware of the symptoms of measles and to monitor their children for symptoms over the coming weeks. Given how easily measles can spread, families should also remain aware of these symptoms among other members of their household.
If your child develops symptoms consistent with measles, please keep them home and contact your healthcare professional. If anyone else in your household develops symptoms and you are concerned about measles, please contact their health care provider. Because measles is highly contagious, families should call the health care provider or medical facility before arrival and inform them of potential measles exposure so that appropriate precautions can be taken.
The health and well-being of our students, staff and families remains a priority. If you have any questions regarding this notice, please contact the Bainbridge Elementary School nurse.
Sincerely,
Elizabethtown Area School District
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Gn Health
