Salisbury University students on campus

Measles Outbreak

Measles Guidance for Salisbury University Community

Overview of Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can lead to serious health complications. It spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Although measles is preventable through vaccination, outbreaks can occur, especially in communities where immunization rates are low.

Symptoms of Measles:

  • High fever (usually starting 10-12 days after exposure)
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Sore throat
  • Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
  • White spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
  • Rash (typically starting at the hairline and spreading to the face, neck, and body)

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please stay at home and contact a healthcare provider immediately.

Measles Vaccination Requirement at Salisbury University

To ensure the health and safety of our campus community, Salisbury University requires all students to be vaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). The MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective in preventing these diseases.

Who Needs to Be Vaccinated?

  • All student enrolled at Salisbury University are required to comply with MMR vaccination regardless of whether classes are in person or remote. Students can also provide proof of immunity via blood test in the event they cannot locate their vaccination records.

Submitting Your Immunization Records:

  • Immunization records must be submitted to Student Health Services before the start of the semester to prevent registration holds on your account.
  • Students can submit their records online through the Student Health Portal (link myhealth.salisbury.edu)
  • If you are unsure whether your records have been submitted or have any questions about your immunization status, please contact Student Health Services at 410-543-6262.

What to Do if You Have Been Exposed to Measles:

If you believe you have been exposed to someone with measles, please take the following steps immediately:

  1. Stay home and avoid contact with others, especially those who may be at higher risk (e.g., infants, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems).
  2. Contact Student Health Services for advice on next steps and potential exposure, or contact your primary care provider for further guidance.
  3. Monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if you develop a rash or other signs of measles.

Why Measles Vaccination is Important:

Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself and others from measles. By ensuring high vaccination coverage, we help to protect vulnerable individuals who may be unable to receive the vaccine due to medical reasons, such as compromised immune systems.

Additional Resources:

  • For more information on measles and the MMR vaccine, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website [cdc.gov/measles/about/index.html]
  • If you need assistance with your immunization requirements, please contact Student Health Services at 410-543-6262 or studenthealth@salisbury.edu.

Protecting Our Community

We appreciate your commitment to the health and safety of the Salisbury University community. By staying up to date with vaccinations, you are helping prevent the spread of contagious diseases like measles and contributing to a healthier campus for all.