Coshocton County health officials investigate measles cases
COSHOCTON – The Coshocton County Health Department and the Holmes County Health Department in collaboration with the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have confirmed one case of measles and are investigating two more suspected cases in the White Eyes area of Coshocton County. The three individuals are from the same family and were not vaccinated for measles.
Measles is an acute, highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus that is easily spread. Symptoms of the measles usually appear within seven to 18 days after exposure. The disease is highly contagious and can be transmitted from four days prior to the onset of the rash to four days after the onset. Anyone who is not immunized and gets exposed to the disease has a high likelihood of getting ill.
“Immunization is the most effective way to protect yourself and your family from vaccine-preventable diseases,” said ODH Interim Director Lance Himes. “When fully vaccinated, the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is 99 percent effective in preventing the measles.”
The Coshocton County Health Department is offering the MMR vaccine to both children and adults. To schedule vaccination appointments for children, call 622-2999. To schedule appointments for adults, call 295-7307.
“We encourage all residents to consult with their physician and get vaccinated to protect themselves from this highly contagious virus,” said Health Commissioner Bob Brems of the Coshocton County Health Department.
Category: People & Places
