UPDATE: WKU student tests positive for measles

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – A student from Western Kentucky University has reportedly tested positive for measles.

On Tuesday, Sept. 10, WKU director of media relations Jace Lux confirmed one student has tested positive.

The Cabinet for Health and Family Services released further information on Tuesday evening, stating the case involves a Tennessee resident that is a student at WKU.

The release states the student is unvaccinated and has recently traveled internationally, where they are believed to have been exposed to measles.

In addition, the release says the student attended several classes and activities on campus and in the local community while infectious with measles on Aug. 28, 29 and 30. No further information about the individual will be released due to privacy regulations.

Individuals who were at the following locations during the dates and times listed may have been exposed to the measles virus, according to the release:

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

The following email was sent to the campus community on Tuesday afternoon:

“We have been informed that a student has tested positive for measles. The university is collaborating with public health officials to identify and notify individuals during the next 24 hours who may have been in close contact with the student.”

The email says there is no immediate risk to the campus community.

Those with questions or concerns are encouraged by the university to reach out to a healthcare provider or the Barren River District Health Department.

News 40 will provide further details as they are released.