Family and Friends Newsletter March 2015

2
News about Measles and the MMR vaccine from SRU Student Health Services The recent outbreak of the Measles virus in the U.S. has been a common point in the news lately, causing some concern across campus. We are writing today in an effort to keep family, friends and students informed of the University’s response to these issues and what everyone should know about Measles. The Measles virus is not present on our campus. We are aware of the situation and the exposure risks, signs and symptoms of Measles, and have put into place procedures and protocols with guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC). We are following the situation closely and are prepared to act, if needed. Student Health Services staff have received on- going education/training in identifying symptoms and the proper steps in reducing the spread of the virus, if an outbreak does occur. It’s important that students understand that the only way to protect against Measles is to receive two doses of the MMR vaccine. The vaccine prevents against Measles, Mumps and Rubella. For any questions or concerns concerning the vaccine or vaccination history, please have your student stop into the Student Health Center or contact Student Health Services at 724.738.2052. As you may be aware, the Measles outbreak, which began at California’s Disneyland in December, has now affected 17 states with documented/reported cases: Arizona, California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota, Michigan, Nebraska, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas, Utah and Washington, according to the CDC. As the upcoming semester midterm recess on March 8-15 approaches, Student Health Services is available as a resource for students Student Health Services 1 Morrow Way, Rhoads Hall, Slippery Rock, PA 16057—724-738-2052—sru.edu/studentlife/healthservices

Transcript of Family and Friends Newsletter March 2015

Page 1: Family and Friends Newsletter March 2015

News about Measles and the MMR vaccine from SRU Student Health ServicesThe recent outbreak of the Measles virus in the U.S. has been a common point in the news lately, causing some concern across campus. We are writing today in an effort to keep family, friends and students informed of the University’s response to these issues and what everyone should know about Measles. 

The Measles virus is not present on our campus.

We are aware of the situation and the exposure risks, signs and symptoms of Measles, and have put into place procedures and protocols with guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC). We are following the situation closely and are prepared to act, if needed. Student Health Services staff have received on-going education/training in identifying symptoms and the proper steps in reducing the spread of the virus, if an outbreak does occur.  It’s important that students understand that the only way to protect against Measles is to receive two doses of the MMR vaccine. The vaccine prevents against Measles, Mumps and Rubella. For any questions or concerns concerning the vaccine or vaccination history, please have your student stop into the Student Health Center or contact Student Health Services at 724.738.2052.

As you may be aware, the Measles outbreak, which began at California’s Disneyland in December, has now affected 17 states with documented/reported cases: Arizona, California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota, Michigan, Nebraska, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas, Utah and Washington, according to the CDC.

As the upcoming semester midterm recess on March 8-15 approaches, Student Health Services is available as a resource for students who are traveling. Students who are unsure of their vaccination history can contact Student Health services for support.

  Protecting the health of the University community is everyone’s responsibility. Here are some general wellness tips to keep your student and others healthy:

Practice good hand hygiene—wash hands often! Contact Student Health Services when feeling ill. Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated. Get plenty of rest. Exercise, and most importantly… Get a flu shot.

 If you have additional questions please contact Student Health Services at 724.738.2052 or visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/measles.

Student Health Services1 Morrow Way, Rhoads Hall, Slippery Rock, PA 16057—724-738-2052—sru.edu/studentlife/healthservices