Communication Handled Well In Measles Outbreak

The Superintendent of Anglophone South school district says the recent measles outbreak reminded her of the H1N1 scare of a decade ago.

Zoe Watson has high praise for everyone involved including public health, district staff and the staff at K.V. High and Hampton High.

Watson was very pleased with the level of communication especially with Dr. Kim Barker, the regional medical officer of health, who she talked to several times a day.

“Our principals were amazing. Mrs. JoEllen Jensen and Mrs. Rosemary Southard.” Watson said.

She notes measles was a larger situation at K.V. High.

“A two, two-plus week period of time. I know in that school given the timing we did have some students who had to have alternative arrangements made for their exams and those are situations looked at on a student by student situations. In some cases, exams may be waved and teachers would meet and look at marks to date.” Watson said.

Watson appreciates the work of the principals and vice-principals setting up those clinics and having immunization stations for up to 30 public health professionals.

“There are certain ways they need things set up. They need a recovery spot for the students and adults and they need some refreshments.” Watson said.

One lesson learned is the importance of current contact information.

She would encourage all parents to update any changes to their phone numbers with the school.

Watson says following the experience with measles at K.V. High when a case was confirmed at Hampton High, she was able to advise the principal on exactly what was needed.