We received an email (attached) from the Illinois Department of Public Health regarding a measles outbreak in Douglas County, about 90 miles from Pontiac. Douglas County has high schools such as: Arcola, Arthur-Lovington-Atwood-Hammond, Tuscola, and Villa Grove. Currently, there are no reported cases in Livingston County, so there is no need for alarm but there are cases closer than in the past. However, because measles is highly contagious, we want to make sure everyone is aware and knows what to watch for. First, please take a moment to review your measles/MMR vaccination status and make sure your immunizations are up to date. If you are unsure of your vaccination history or immunity, please let Mrs. Blaetz our PTHS nurse know, contact your health provider for guidance (more than likely your child’s pediatrician office), and or the Livingston County Health Department depending on where you may have received your vaccinations.
A reminder that measles symptoms can include:
• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red/watery eyes
• A rash that typically begins on the face/hairline and spreads downward
If you develop symptoms consistent with measles, please do NOT come to school and contact your healthcare provider right away. As always, please continue practicing good respiratory hygiene, including covering coughs and sneezes and washing your hands regularly. We will continue to monitor the situation and will communicate any information or recommendations that directly affect our school community.
Please reach out to any of us with any questions or concerns.
Thank you for helping us keep our school community safe!
Mrs. Blaetz, School Nurse, ablaetz@pontiac90.org
Dr. McGuckin, Superintendent, rmcguckin@pontiac90.org
Mr. Blair, Principal, bblair@pontiac90.org
Ms. Graves, LACC Director, tgraves@pontiac90.org
Mrs. Bozarth, Assistant Principal, mbozarth@pontiac90.org
Mr. Neisler, Athletic Director, jneisler@pontiac90.org
