FRANKFORT, Ky. — A Tennessee resident, who is a student at the Western Kentucky University (WKU), recently tested positive for measles. Kentucky health officials are now warning there could be more exposures in both states.
The student, who is unvaccinated, recently traveled internationally where it’s believed they contracted the highly contagious respiratory virus, according to officials with the Kentucky Department for Public Health (KDPH) and Barren River Health District.
Health officials said the student attended several classes and activities on WKU’s campus and in the local community while infectious with measles on Aug. 28, 29 and 30.
If you were at the following locations during the listed dates and times, you may have been exposed to the measles virus:
- The Commons at Helm Library (WKU): 1906 College Heights Blvd. #11067, Bowling Green, Ky. 42101
- Wednesday, Aug. 28, (7:45 a.m. to 10 a.m.; 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.)
- Thursday, Aug. 29, (7:45 a.m. to 10 a.m.)
- Friday, Aug. 30, (7:45 a.m. to 10 a.m.)
- WKU Student Union – Starbucks: 1906 College Heights Blvd., Bowling Green, Ky. 42101
- Wednesday, Aug. 28, (6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.)
- Simply Ramen Restaurant: 801 Campbell Lane, Bowling Green, Ky. 42014
- Thursday, Aug. 29, (7 p.m. to 11 p.m.)
No further information about the student is being released due to privacy regulations, officials added.
What is Measles?
Measles spreads through the air and is highly contagious. Early symptoms begin 8-12 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose and red/watery eyes.
The characteristic measles rash typically appears three to five days after symptoms begin, health officials added. It usually appears on the face before spreading to the rest of the body.
“Measles is one of the most contagious viruses,” KDPH Commissioner Dr. Steven Stack said. “Individuals who were exposed and are unvaccinated should quarantine for 21 days after their exposure and contact their health care provider immediately if they develop symptoms. It is important to call the health care facility to make them aware of your measles exposure and symptoms prior to entering, so that others are not exposed.”
Stack said most Kentuckians are already immune to measle due to being vaccinated as children. No additional measles cases have been reported yet in Kentucky this year.
If you have questions or concerns about a potential measles exposure, you are advised to contact your health care provider or the Barren River District Health Department at 833-551-0953.
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