There is a measles outbreak in Central Ohio. This outbreak is not limited to the City of Columbus and is spreading in our community. Measles in a very serious and highly contagious disease caused by a virus that spreads easily in the air by coughing and sneezing.
What You Can Do
- Get vaccinated immediately. Children can get the first dose of MMR at 12 months of age, and sometimes as early as 6 months old.
- STAY HOME if you or your child are sick.
- Children exposed to measles should quarantine for 21 days.
- Children who are positive for measles should isolate for 5 days.
- Contact your health care provider if someone in your family has any measles symptoms.
- Isolate sick people from unvaccinated people. Vaccinate immediately.
- Ensure your family is up-to-date on MMR vaccines. Keep an updated roster of children in your care, if you provide childcare.
- Cover coughs, wash hands, clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
What You Need to Know About Measles
Anyone who has not been immunized or had measles in the past is at risk of getting measles. Speak to your doctor if you or your child develops these symptoms:
- Fever
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Conjunctivitis (red, watery eyes)
- Tiny white spots inside the mouth
- Rash all over the body