Health officials in Butler County, Ohio have confirmed a case of measles in a child who is less than a year old. The child acquired the measles during international travel and returned to the United States through a Chicago-area airport before traveling to Ohio by car. The Butler Country General Health District (BCGHD) has not disclosed any additional information about the affected individual. Staff at the health district worked on the Fourth of July holiday to notify close contacts of their exposure status.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, according to the health district. Symptoms of measles include fever, runny nose, cough, and rash. There is no specific treatment for measles.
The best way to protect against measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases is through immunization, the release stated. Unvaccinated individuals one year and older are generally recommended to receive a measles vaccination to protect themselves and those around them. Children should receive their first dose of the measles vaccine between 12 and 15 months of age and another dose at 4-6 years of age.
The measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) vaccine is usually given at 12 months of age in the United States, but may be recommended for younger children traveling outside the country or in case of an outbreak. Those who are unsure about their vaccination status or are experiencing symptoms of measles should contact their healthcare provider. The Butler County General Health District can be reached at 513-863-1770 for questions and vaccination appointments. More information about measles is available on the CDC’s website, www.cdc.gov/measles.