The Ohio Department of Health has announced its first case of measles in 2025, a development that underscores the importance of vaccination. The individual, from Ashtabula County, was unvaccinated and had recently traveled internationally.
According to the ODH, the new case “adds emphasis to the risk of measles,” a disease that can be serious but is preventable with proper vaccination. The state has seen a decline in cases over the past few years, with 90 reported in 2022, followed by a single case in 2023 and seven last year.
The MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, is 97% effective when administered as recommended. The CDC recommends children receive their first dose between 12-15 months, with the second dose given between ages 4-6. Unvaccinated individuals born after 1957 can also receive the vaccine.
Symptoms of measles include a rash lasting five to six days, high fever, runny nose, cough, loss of appetite, and watery red eyes.
As an outbreak in Texas recently spread to New Mexico, this case highlights the ongoing risk of measles. The ODH is working with local health departments to follow up on potential exposures and promote vaccination opportunities.
Source: https://ohiocapitaljournal.com/briefs/ohio-department-of-health-identifies-measles-case-in-the-state