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 an early preview of the communication planned for families and was not intended for external distribution prior to the family notification,” a letter to families said. “Unfortunately, the information was shared outside the District, resulting in media coverage before we had the opportunity to communicate directly with families. We regret that some families may have learned of the situation through media reports first. 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 was informed that one Bainbridge Elementary School student has tested positive for measles. We are sharing this information so families are aware of the confirmed case and can monitor for symptoms.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 an early preview of the communication planned for families and was not intended for external distribution prior to the family notification. Unfortunately, the information was shared outside the District, resulting in media coverage before we had the opportunity to communicate directly with families. We regret that some families may have learned of the situation through media reports first. As a result, we are sending this communication earlier than originally planned.Because measles can 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 MeaslesMeasles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Symptoms generally begin with:FeverCoughRunny noseRed, watery eyesA red, blotchy rash that typically begins on the face and spreads to the rest of the bodySymptoms can develop up to 21 days following exposure. The MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine provides protection against measles. Bainbridge Elementary School has a high rate of vaccination against measles among its student population.What Families Should KnowWe encourage families to be aware of the symptoms of measles and monitor their children for symptoms during 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 your child home and contact your healthcare provider. If another member of your household develops symptoms and there is concern about measles, please contact their healthcare provider. Because measles is highly contagious, families should call the healthcare provider or medical facility before arriving and let them know about the potential measles exposure so appropriate precautions can be taken.The health and well-being of our students, staff and families remains a priority. If you have questions about this notice, please contact the Bainbridge Elementary School nurse.Sincerely,Elizabethtown Area School DistrictThis content is imported from infogram. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.
