In Ohio, a case of measles has been reported in a child less than one year old who contracted the disease through international travel. The child returned to the United States via a Chicago-area airport and then traveled to Ohio by car. Health officials at the Butler County General Health District (BCGHD) have not released any additional information about the affected individual but are working to notify close contacts of their exposure status. It’s important to note that if you do not receive a call from BCGHD, there has been no exposure to measles.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads easily when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough, and rash, with no specific treatment for the disease. To prevent the spread of measles, health officials emphasize the importance of immunization. The measles vaccine is recommended for all unvaccinated individuals aged one year and older, with children receiving their first dose between 12 and 15 months of age and a second dose at 4-6 years of age. In the United States, the MMR vaccine is typically administered at 12 months of age, but may be given as early as six months for children traveling abroad or at risk of exposure during an outbreak. Anyone unsure about their vaccination status or experiencing symptoms should contact a healthcare provider. Vaccination appointments can be scheduled through BCGHD, and more information about measles can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website.