Medina County Reports 18 Measles Cases, Health Officials Urge Vaccination

The Medina County Health Department is monitoring a growing number of measles cases, with 18 cases reported as of Oct. 21.

Of those cases, three have been confirmed and 15 are considered probable.

Health officials say the cases are concentrated within a small group of families who are taking precautions to isolate and prevent further spread. So far, no public exposure locations, including schools, have been identified in Medina County.

For residents who are vaccinated, health officials say the risk of contracting measles remains low.

But measles is one of the most contagious viruses known, and health officials are reminding residents just how serious the illness can be.

“As you know, measles can be quite serious,” said Wendy Hall with the Medina County Health Department.

Hall explained that symptoms typically include a high fever, sometimes exceeding 104 degrees, along with coughing, a runny nose, red or watery eyes, and a rash.

Complications can be far more serious, particularly for young children and people with weakened immune systems.

“While death from measles is uncommon (1 to 3 deaths per 1,000 cases), the disease can still lead to significant complications,” Hall said.

According to the health department, approximately one in five people who contract measles may require hospitalization. Complications can include pneumonia, dehydration, brain swelling, hearing loss and, in rare cases, death.

Measles spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.

Health officials continue to emphasize vaccination as the most effective protection.

“Two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective,” Hall said. “While it is possible to get and transmit measles after being vaccinated, it is very rare.”

Adults who are unsure of their vaccination history are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider. Parents of infants between six and 12 months old may also want to discuss an early dose of the vaccine if they live in or plan to travel to an area experiencing an outbreak.

The Medina County Health Department says it continues to investigate each case and identify any potential public exposures. If a public exposure location is identified, residents will be notified.

Updated case numbers and additional information are available HERE.

Residents with questions can also contact the Medina County Health Department at 330-723-9688.