Measles update: Keeping students on track with school & activities

BVSD Families and Staff:

As you may have heard in the media we a measles outbreak in the Boulder Valley School District.

Both confirmed cases of measles exposure happened at Broomfield High School, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has shared the following releases: 

First Case: Colorado public health officials confirm measles case, release locations for potential exposures in Broomfield, Lafayette, Louisville, and Westminster

Second Case: Colorado public health officials confirm measles case, release locations for potential exposures in Broomfield and Westminster

Third Case: Colorado public health officials confirm measles case, release locations for potential exposures in Broomfield

Our top priority is keeping students healthy and safe while helping them stay engaged in school and activities during this busy time of year.

With state academic testing, spring sports, spring break, prom, field trips, field days and graduation approaching, it’s important that families understand how measles exposure can affect attendance. 

Public health guidance requires students who are exposed and who are not vaccinated or have documented immunity, to stay home and quarantine from all activities, school or otherwise, for up to 21 days. This timeline can extend if additional exposures occur. 

The most reliable way to prevent exclusion following exposure is to ensure your child has documented immunity. Families who are unsure of their child’s immunization status are encouraged to review records and contact their healthcare provider (see ways to verify below).

If your child is not fully immunized against measles, receiving the MMR vaccine now remains the best way to avoid disruption should additional exposures occur. See resources and information below.

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About measles
Measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases, 9 out of 10 people who aren't protected against measles will get it if they are near someone who is infected with measles.

It is a respiratory infection that causes fever, cough, and rash, but can also lead to complications like pneumonia and can be deadly. A high vaccination rate helps prevent spread and serious illness.

The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) typically provides long-lasting immunity. There are no antivirals for measles, and doctors primarily manage symptoms. Vaccination remains the key defense against measles.

Stay informed by checking the CDPHE Measles webpage and as a reminder, BVSD follows CDPHE’s Too Sick for School guidelines.

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How to Find Your Vaccination Record
To access your vaccination record please try the following:

• Your current or previous healthcare provider
• Your K–12 school district or college
• If you previously attended BVSD, you may request your records using the BVSD Records Request form
• The state where you lived as a child may maintain records through an Immunization Information System

In Colorado, the Colorado Immunization Information System (CIIS) public portal may provide your vaccination records if you received immunizations in Colorado.

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If You Cannot Find Your Vaccination Record
If you are unable to locate documentation or believe you did not receive the MMR vaccine, please contact your healthcare provider to determine whether you need:

• An MMR vaccine now, or
• A titer test to determine whether you are already immune

You may need to work with your health insurance provider to determine where you can receive a titer test or vaccination.

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We appreciate your partnership in keeping students healthy, in school, and able to participate fully in these important end-of-year school experiences.

BVSD Health Services