April 3rd, 2024-COLUMBUS, Ohio-An outbreak of measles in Ohio has affected 82 children, with 32 hospitalized, according to Columbus Public Health. The outbreak began with a child infected at a childcare facility and has spread to various locations including a Dollar Tree, mall, and church.
All cases involve children under 18, with 28% under 12 months old. Despite the outbreak’s severity, officials note a slowing trend, crediting community vaccination efforts. Compared to past outbreaks, this one is relatively mild, with over 1,200 cases in 2019 and 664 in 2014. Measles symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash. The virus is highly contagious, spreading easily through airborne droplets. Vaccination is crucial for prevention, as measles can lead to serious complications such as encephalitis.
