FRANKFORT, Ky. — Officials from the Barren River Health District and the Kentucky Department for Public Health confirmed a case of measles identified in a Tennessee resident who is a student at Western Kentucky University. 

What You Need To Know

  • The Kentucky Department for Public Health and Barren River Health District confirmed a case of measles

  • It was identified in a Tennessee resident who is attending Western Kentucky University 

  • Officials said the student is unvaccinated and had recently traveled internationally

  • Measles symptoms often begin eight to 12 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose and red/watery eyes

They said the student is unvaccinated and had recently traveled internationally, where they are presumed to have been exposed to the disease, adding the student attended several classes and activities on campus while infectious between Aug. 28 and Aug. 30. The health department added people who were at the following locations during these dates and times may have been exposed:

  • The Commons at Helm Library (WKU), 1906 College Heights Blvd. #11067, Bowling Green, Kentucky, 42101: Wednesday, Aug. 28 (7:45-10 a.m., 8-10:30 p.m.), Thursday, Aug. 29 (7:45-10 a.m.) and Friday, Aug. 30 (7:45-10 a.m.)
  • WKU Student Union – Starbucks, 1906 College Heights Blvd., Bowling Green, Kentucky, 42101: Wednesday, Aug. 28 (6:30-9:30 p.m.)
  • Simply Ramen Restaurant, 801 Campbell Lane, Bowling Green, Kentucky, 42014: Thursday, Aug. 29 (7-11 p.m.) 

Measles, a highly contagious respiratory virus, is spread through the air. Early symptoms begin eight to 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, the health department said, usually on the face before spreading to the rest of the body. 

“Measles is one of the most contagious viruses,” said KDPH Commissioner Steven Stack. “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.”

There have been several outbreaks of measles this year linked to individuals with international travel, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Though no additional confirmed measles cases have been reported in Kentucky this year, the health department collaborated with the Ohio Department of Health on a measles exposure in January at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. 

Those with questions or concerns about a potential exposure should contact their health care provider or the Barren River District Health Department at 833-551-0953. 

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