Kent State University is aware that Geauga Public Health has reported a confirmed case of measles involving someone who visited the Kent State Geauga Campus in Burton on Tuesday, Nov. 3, from about 3:30 to 7 p.m. According to Geauga Public Health, anyone on campus during that time may have been exposed.
The health and safety of our students, faculty, staff and visitors remains our top priority. We encourage everyone in the university community to check their immunization status, watch for symptoms and follow Geauga Public Health’s guidance.
Measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms can appear seven to 21 days after exposure. For anyone on campus Nov. 3, that means through about Nov. 24. Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes and a rash.
Anyone who may have been exposed and is not vaccinated, or is unsure of their immunity, should contact their healthcare provider. If you develop symptoms, call your provider before visiting a medical facility so others aren’t exposed.
The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective. Two doses provide about 97% protection.
For more information about measles, including vaccination and what to do if you think you’ve been exposed, visit Kent State’s DeWeese Health Center measles page. Geauga Public Health has posted the full list of exposure locations and can answer questions at 440-279-1900.
