Measles has arrived in OHIO!

The first measles cases of the year have been identified in Ohio.  Cases have been confirmed in NE and central Ohio, but not yet in the greater Cincinnati area.  This will likely change.  Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease for those who are old enough to receive the vaccine.  Typically, the MMR vaccine is given to children 1 year and older, but can be given down to 6 months of age if circumstances indicate increased risk.  While it is not clear that this is the time, it is a time to be vigilant and monitor the ever changing situation.  It is uncommon to contract measles if you are fully vaccinated, and 93% of persons with even one dose of the MMR vaccine will be well protected.  Measles is a virus and cannot be directly treated if contracted and can have a mortality rate of up to 3% and an even higher medical complication rate.  It is one of the most contagious illnesses known, and even a very slight exposure can lead to contracting the disease.  Primary symptoms are fever and rash, which are common symptoms, but should be taken seriously, especially if someone is unvaccinated.  If your child is unvaccinated and you note these symptoms, please contact us (or your primary care provider) to discuss.