April 10, 2026
Viking Nation,
The Monroe County Health Department and Dundee Community Schools are closely monitoring the local measles case because we are concerned about the health and safety of children in our community. There are multiple public exposure sites in Monroe County. Considering our local situation and a measles outbreak in Washtenaw County, we want to make sure you have timely, accurate information.
Measles is one of the most contagious illnesses we know of. If exposed to measles, 9 out of 10 unvaccinated people will get sick. Measles is preventable with vaccination.
If your child has yet not received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine and is able to, we are strongly asking that you consider getting them vaccinated as soon as possible. The health and safety of those most vulnerable in our community depends on preventing the spread of measles, and vaccination is the most effective way. The MMR vaccine is highly effective and very safe, with a single dose about 93% effective at preventing measles and two doses about 97% effective. You can learn more about getting vaccinated here.
A first dose of MMR vaccine is usually given when babies turn one. Parents and guardians with young children should know that there is now a public health recommendation for an early MMR dose for infants ages 6 to 11 months in areas with possible community transmission. This includes Monroe County.
Exclusion of Individuals Exposed to Measles:
Any unvaccinated individual (zero doses of MMR vaccine) exposed to measles will be excluded from school for a minimum of 21 days.
If an unvaccinated individual is exposed to measles, but chooses to get the first dose of the MMR vaccine within 72 hours after exposure, they may return to school while continuing to monitor symptoms for 21 days.
If a partially vaccinated individual (1 dose of MMR vaccine) is exposed to measles and they receive a second dose within 72 hours of exposure, they may continue to come to school and should monitor their symptoms for 21 days.
If the second dose is received more than 72 hours after exposure, the health department may choose to exclude for 21 days depending on the situation.
Fully vaccinated individuals (2 doses of MMR vaccine) exposed to measles may continue to come to school and should monitor their symptoms for 21 days.
Note: If multiple cases occur in a school, the 21-day exclusion period resets with each new exposure, potentially extending the exclusion period.
Measles is here now in our community. We can prevent additional cases and potentially serious infections, as well as time away from school, if all we do what we can to prevent its spread.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Jamie Dean, BS, MSEd Scott Leach
Health Officer/Director Superintendent
Monroe County Health Department Dundee Community Schools