The Barton County Health Department is investigating a possible mumps case at Great Bend High School.
On Saturday, parents and guardians were notified of the case via an email from Barton County Health Director Shelly Schneider and USD 428 interim superintendent Khris Thexton.
“Immunization records of those in close contact with the infected student have been reviewed and vaccinations of those individuals have been found to be current,” the email stated. “However, it is important that your child has had two doses of the MMR (mumps-measles-rubella) vaccination to be fully protected. Anyone who has not been properly immunized may be at risk.”
The most common symptoms of mumps include fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness, loss of appetite and swollen and tender salivary glands under the ears on one or both sides. Some people who get mumps have very mild or no symptoms and often they do not know they have the disease.
Parents are advised to contact their family physician if their student experiences any those symptoms.
The Barton County Health Department, 1300 Kansas Ave., was scheduled to be closed on Monday because of Presidents Day. However, the department will be open from 4-6 p.m. on Monday to answer questions, review records and administer vaccines as needed.
“Please be assured that the health department and USD 428 are working together to ensure the health and safety of your child,” the email concludes. “If you have questions or concerns, please call the Barton County Health Department on Monday between the hours of 4 and 6 p.m. That number is 620-793-1902.”