As Ohio health officials confirm a growing measles outbreak in the state, the Adams County Health Department is reminding residents that the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is available locally—and can save lives.
On March 26, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) announced that 10 confirmed measles cases have been identified in Ashtabula County, with another case involving a visitor in Knox County who may have exposed others in multiple nearby counties. All of the individuals infected so far were unvaccinated.
“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 here in Ohio,” said ODH Director Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff. “This disease can be very serious, even deadly, but it is almost entirely avoidable by being properly vaccinated.”
The Adams County Health Department echoed that message, urging local families to make sure their vaccinations are up to date. The MMR vaccine is available through the department—residents can call or stop in to schedule an appointment.
“Vaccines save lives,” said the Adams County Health Department on social media. “With cases now confirmed in Ohio, this is an important time to check your family’s immunization records. Measles spreads quickly, and prevention is key.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one infected individual can transmit measles to 12–18 unvaccinated people. The virus is airborne and can linger for up to two hours after a person with measles coughs or sneezes.
Measles symptoms typically include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes, and a blotchy rash that spreads down the body. Serious complications—such as pneumonia, brain swelling, or even death—are more common in children under 5, adults over 20, and those with weakened immune systems. The CDC recommends that all children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine—first at 12 to 15 months old and again at 4 to 6 years old. Adults unsure of their vaccination status should consult their healthcare provider. Ohio has already seen a rise in measles cases in recent years, with 90 reported in 2022. The current outbreak serves as a strong reminder of the importance of community-wide immunity.
For more information about measles and immunization, visit the CDC website or call the Adams County Health Department to speak with a nurse.
