Measles Alert
An official measles outbreak has been declared in Los Angeles County. With widespread outbreaks of measles happening in the United States and internationally, and local cases transmitted within Los Angeles County, the chance of exposure to measles is increased at this time. Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads from person-to-person. A person with measles can spread the disease to others even before they have any symptoms. Most people who have not been immunized against measles will get it if they have contact with the virus.

To assist in keeping the El Camino College community healthy, the following measures are recommended:

• Students and employees need to know their vaccination status. Getting vaccinated is the best way to keep from getting and spreading the measles.
• Students and employees must know the symptoms of measles, so they can take action in case they become ill. (See flyer for more information.)
• Students and employees who are feeling ill with possible measles symptoms should call their medical provider before going to a doctor's office in order to prevent the spread of measles in waiting rooms.
• ECC's Student Health Services has been working diligently with the L.A. County Department of Public Health to ensure the Student Health Center has a protocol in place to quarantine and report suspected/active cases of the measles, if any are identified. If a highly suspicious case of the measles is visible in your classroom/campus area, please IMMEDIATELY call the L.A. County Public Health Department for consultation (phone calls are being answered by live individuals at all times:
              Weekdays 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. - 213-351-7800
              After hours/weekends - 213-974-1234

The best way to keep from getting and spreading measles is to get an immunization, available via a doctor's office, local pharmacy or health clinic. Public Health clinics offer no-cost or low-cost immunizations for those who are uninsured or underinsured. The Student Health Center also offers the vaccine for $60 (this is less than the usual cost) for ECC students currently attending classes and have paid the Student Health Fee for the spring semester. Also available to students is a $7 measles titer, which is a blood test that indicates if the person is currently immune to measles. This test is particularly helpful for those students who are unsure of their immunization status.

If you think that you or someone in your family has measles or has been exposed to measles, contact your doctor's office by phone right away. For more information, contact El Camino College Student Health Services at 310-660-3643.