New Measles Cases Reported in Central Ohio, Health Officials Urge Vaccination
Health officials in Central Ohio are once again reminding residents about the importance of vaccination after several new measles cases were confirmed in the region.
The New Albany-Plain Local Schools’ Early Learning Center (ELC) temporarily closed on Monday after a student tested positive for measles. Fully vaccinated kindergarten students are expected to return Tuesday, while preschool classes will remain closed for the week and possibly through October 16.
“This is a huge inconvenience for many families,” said Dr. Mysheika Roberts, Health Commissioner with Columbus Public Health (CPH).
According to officials from CPH, Franklin County Public Health, and the school district, the infection started when an unvaccinated traveler returned from abroad and transmitted the virus to a sibling. The sibling later attended the ELC during their infectious period.
Dr. Roberts noted that some young students have not yet completed their vaccination schedules. “Those with one dose can receive their second and return to school. But unvaccinated children must stay home for 21 days, even after receiving their first dose,” she explained.
There are currently four confirmed measles cases, all within a single unvaccinated household in the New Albany-Plain Local Schools district.
“I want to remind people that measles is not a mild disease. One of our cases required hospitalization,” said Dr. Roberts.
Although contained to one family, the incident is being treated as an outbreak, reminiscent of the 2022 Central Ohio outbreak, which recorded 85 cases — 84 among unvaccinated individuals.
“This situation shows the importance of having children vaccinated,” Dr. Roberts emphasized. “It protects your family and helps prevent the spread of this highly contagious illness.”
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