Measles
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air. It can stay in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. Measles can be serious and may lead to hospitalization or death, according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Measles can be transmitted by direct contact with infectious droplets or by airborne spread when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. College campuses create ideal conditions for this type of airborne virus to spread because students live, eat, learn, and socialize in high-density spaces like residence halls, dining facilities, and crowded lecture halls. A single infected person can easily expose hundreds of people in a very short period—often before they even realize they are sick.
Symptoms of Measles
Symptoms usually begin one to two weeks after exposure and may include:
- High fever
- Cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes
- Tiny white spots inside the mouth
- A flat, red rash that appears within three to five days—often beginning along the hairline and spreading down to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet
What to do if you think you have measles
If you have symptoms, isolate yourself immediately. Measles is extremely contagious. Call before going to Student Health Services, a clinic, or a hospital and tell them you may have measles. Calling ahead helps protect other patients and staff. Do not go to class or attend social gatherings if you think you may have measles.
Voluntary Measles Vaccination Request
Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide 97% protection from measles, according to DHS. Vaccination with the MMR vaccine is the single most effective strategy for preventing measles outbreaks and protecting the campus community.
UW-Platteville is asking all students to complete a voluntary measles vaccination status request. Even if you do not have records or wish to opt out, please log in and choose the option that best reflects your situation. This is not a requirement, but your help is instrumental in the university's preparedness plan.
DHS is asking colleges and universities to collect vaccination information so they can respond quickly if an outbreak occurs. This is voluntary. The information helps UW-Platteville plan ahead, communicate quickly, and support campus health and safety. High-density academic and residential campus environments present unique vulnerabilities for the rapid airborne transmission of measles. In light of the ongoing 2026 measles outbreak in Southwestern Wisconsin and national measles case totals reaching levels not seen since the pre-elimination era, DHS recommends enhancing outbreak preparedness by actively verifying students' immunization status and proactively recommending MMR vaccination for all students who do not have documentation of receiving two doses of MMR.
Your response matters, even if you're unvaccinated or don't have records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have Questions? We're Here to Help.
We are here to help. Please use the contacts below for questions or assistance:
- General questions about why UW-Platteville is requesting vaccination information: questions@uwplatt.edu
- MedProctor technical questions: Contact MedProctor through its online request form. Live chat is available through the widget in the lower right corner of the screen, or email help@medproctor.com
- All other technical issues: Contact the ITS Help Desk at helpdesk@uwplatt.edu