COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — The Ohio Department of Health on Wednesday reported a measles outbreak in the state after several more cases were confirmed.
There are 10 measles cases in Ashtabula County and one case in Knox County, according to ODH. Nine of the measles cases in Ashtabula County were linked to an adult male, who was confirmed last week as the state’s first measles case of the year.
The confirmed case in Knox County exposed others in Knox and nearby counties, officials said.
Knox Public Health said the case was in an international traveler who was visiting the county. That person is no longer infectious after completing their isolation period.
“KPH is also working with the individual and their healthcare provider to identify contacts,” according to a news release. “KPH will notify the contacts and provide guidance on post-exposure prophylaxis and quarantine.”
None of the individuals were vaccinated, according to ODH.
Ohio Department of Health Director Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff encouraged parents to get their children vaccinated, as children are at a higher risk.
“Given the measles activity in Texas, New Mexico, and other states around the country, we’re disappointed but not surprised we now have several cases in Ohio and known exposure in some counties,” Vanderhoff said in a statement. “This disease can be very serious, even deadly, but it is almost entirely avoidable by being properly vaccinated.”
“I strongly urge all parents across Ohio to make sure your children are vaccinated,” he said. “It is a crucial layer of protection that can save lives.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a measles outbreak is defined as three or more related cases. The disease spreads quickly and is extremely contagious. The virus can live in the air for up to two hours after an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Adults who were vaccinated against measles as a child don’t need additional doses in most cases, officials said.