Measles Information and School Safety Plan

Dear Odyssey Families,

With recent measles cases reported in the region, we want to ensure our community stays informed and protected. Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can spread quickly in group settings like schools. The best protection is full vaccination with two doses of the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella).

What to Know

• Measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

• It can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left the room.

• Symptoms typically appear 7–14 days after exposure and include:

• Fever

• Cough, runny nose, red eyes

• Rash that starts on the face and spreads downward

If your child develops these symptoms, please keep them home and contact your healthcare provider before visiting the medical office, so precautions can be taken.

 Immunization & Protection

Two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles.
You can check your child’s vaccination record through your healthcare provider or the NC Immunization Registry.

If your child is missing a dose, contact:

• Your pediatrician, or

• Buncombe County Immunization Clinic: (828) 250-5096

Travelers should be fully vaccinated before international trips. Infants 6–11 months old who are traveling may receive one early dose (consult your pediatrician).

If a Case Occurs at Odyssey

• Public health officials will immediately be notified.

• Families of any potential contacts will be contacted directly.

• Unvaccinated individuals may be temporarily excluded from school for up to 21 days following exposure.

• Those who receive the MMR vaccine within 72 hours of exposure can generally return immediately, but should monitor for symptoms.
  
  

What You Can Do Now

✅ Review your child’s vaccine record.
✅ Keep children home when ill.
✅ Reinforce handwashing and cough etiquette.
✅ Stay informed — rely on trusted sources such as the CDC Measles page and the NC Department of Health.

Thank you for working together to keep our school community healthy and safe.

Warmly,
Odyssey School Administration