Important Health Room Message, October 30, 2025

Dear BLMS Families,

We want to share important information about measles and what it means for your child’s school attendance. Measles cases have recently been reported in several states, and it can spread very easily among people who are not immune. Because of this, we want to make sure all families understand how schools must respond if a case of measles occurs.

What families need to know:

• If a case of measles occurs at your child’s school, students who are not vaccinated or immune will need to stay home (be excluded) for 21 days after the last possible exposure. This is required by Public Health to help prevent the disease from spreading.
• You can help protect your child now by making sure they are vaccinated.
  • The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the best protection against measles.
  • Children younger than 19 years old can get routine immunizations for free in Washington State. You can find a vaccine clinic near you on King County's website.
• If your child becomes sick, please keep them home and call your healthcare provider right away. Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that spreads over the body.

Need help?

If your family needs help finding a healthcare provider or getting health insurance, the Community Health Access Program (CHAP) can help. Visit kingcounty.gov/chap or call 1-800-756-5437 for assistance.

We understand that school absences can be challenging for families. Our goal is to keep students healthy and learning. If an outbreak occurs, your school will provide information about learning options for students who cannot attend school because they are not immune.

Thank you for helping us protect the health of all students and staff.

Sincerely,

Kerri Whitworth, School Nurse