Preventative Measures During Measles Outbreak in Los Angeles County

To: The Campus Community
From: Jennifer Howes, Executive Director of Student Wellness Services and Julia McCallin, Associate Vice President for Human Resources
Date: May 3, 2019
Re: Preventative measures during measles outbreak in Los Angeles County

In light of the recent measles outbreaks in Southern California, Caltech's Student Wellness Services is working closely with the Institute's leadership as well as the Pasadena and Los Angeles County public health departments to monitor the situation, and has plans in place to address any potential exposure on campus.

Please note: There have been NO cases of, or suspected exposure to, the measles virus on the Caltech campus.

In case of any future potential exposure on campus, the most important consideration is that individuals have, and are able to document, immunity to measles, either by record of two doses of the measles vaccine (MMR) or a blood test. Please make an effort to locate relevant immunization records.

• Students may contact a provider at Student Wellness Services (626-395-6393) for any questions related to vaccines, their records, or measles in general.
• Staff, faculty, and other community members should contact their primary care physician with any concerns or to obtain records, a vaccine booster, or a blood test to prove immunity.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend vaccination as the primary protection against the measles virus. Vaccination protects individuals as well as the society. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are recommended for adults; more information can be found here.

Thank you for your attention to this important issue.