The Van Wert County General Health District reported one laboratory-confirmed measles case and said it is investigating possible exposures, notifying contacts and advising people who may have been exposed.
Ohio Department of Health data cited in the announcement show more than 250 confirmed cases in 23 counties this year. The district's release put Ohio at 254 confirmed cases as of Tuesday and Indiana at 40 as of Wednesday. Hancock County reported a confirmed case the previous week. ODH says most cases involve unvaccinated people. No measles deaths have been reported in Ohio; Pennsylvania had five measles-related deaths as of the end of September.
Measles spreads easily and can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves, according to the release. People without vaccination face the highest risk. Symptoms can include high fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes and rash, usually appearing 7 to 14 days after exposure but sometimes up to 21 days later. People with weakened immune systems may develop symptoms later.
Anyone with symptoms is advised to avoid others and call a health care provider before going to a medical facility, so staff can take precautions. Questions about symptoms, exposure or vaccination can go to the health district at 419.238.0808.
The district plans a free vaccination clinic from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 22, at Willshire Village Community Park, 206 Walcott St. MMR vaccine is recommended for unvaccinated people age 1 and older; children generally receive doses at 12-15 months and 4-6 years, with earlier doses possible in some circumstances. Officials said most residents are protected and public risk remains low.