Ohio's Measles Outbreak in Unvaccinated Children Continues

The Columbus Public Health (CPH) and Franklin County Public Health (FCPH) recently confirmed they are investigating a measles outbreak associated with a local childcare facility.

Currently, there are four confirmed cases, all in unvaccinated children with no travel history. 

These four new measles cases bring the total number of confirmed measles cases in Franklin County to eight since June 16, 2022.

According to the U.S. CDC, measles outbreaks can happen in areas where people may be unvaccinated or under-vaccinated.

As of October 28, 2022, a total of 33 measles cases had been reported by five jurisdictions to the CDC.

“We are working diligently with the cases to identify any potential exposures and to notify people who were exposed,” said Columbus Public Health Commissioner Dr. Mysheika Roberts in a press release on November 9, 2022.

“The most important thing you can do to protect against measles is to get vaccinated with the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine, which is safe and highly effective.”

Measles can enter the U.S. through infected travelers entering or traveling through the U.S. and infected U.S. travelers returning from other countries.

As of November 14, 2022, measles outbreaks are occurring in every region of the world, led by India and various African and Asia countries.

Measles vaccines are commonly available at most clinics and pharmacies in the U.S.