Ohio health authorities have confirmed a measles outbreak in Ashtabula County, adding to the rising number of infections across the United States. The Ohio Department of Health announced on Wednesday that 10 individuals have tested positive, all of whom were unvaccinated. Nine of these cases are linked to an unvaccinated man reported last week as the state’s first measles case of 2025.
In addition, a separate case was confirmed in Knox County, where a visitor exposed multiple people to the highly contagious disease. Health officials emphasize that none of the infected individuals in Ohio had received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, increasing the risk of further spread.
The outbreak in Ohio comes as nationwide measles cases in 2025 have already surpassed the total reported in 2024. According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 378 cases have been confirmed across 18 states, with Texas and New Mexico experiencing the most significant outbreaks.
Public Health Officials Urge Vaccination Amid Rising Cases
“Given the measles activity in Texas, New Mexico, and other states, we’re disappointed but not surprised to see cases in Ohio,” said Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, director of the Ohio Department of Health. “This disease can be severe, even deadly, but it is almost entirely preventable through proper vaccination. Measles is especially dangerous for young children, so I strongly urge all parents across Ohio to ensure their children are vaccinated. It is a crucial layer of protection that can save lives.”
Measles is a highly infectious viral disease that spreads through respiratory droplets. The CDC warns that one case of measles can lead to an additional 12 to 18 infections if people are not vaccinated. Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash that spreads across the body.
Declining Vaccination Rates Raise Alarm
Ohio health officials have expressed concern over the declining vaccination rates in the state. The latest school immunization report reveals that MMR vaccination rates among kindergartners have dropped from 89.2% in the 2023-2024 school year to 88.3% in the current school year. This decline increases the likelihood of outbreaks.
This is not Ohio’s first measles outbreak in recent years. In 2022, the state reported 90 cases, with 85 of them concentrated in central Ohio.
Kansas Reports 23 Measles Cases as Outbreak Expands
Ohio is not the only state facing a rise in measles infections. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment confirmed 23 cases on Wednesday, with the majority occurring among unvaccinated individuals under the age of 18. Among the cases:
- Six infections involved children aged four or younger.
- Fifteen cases were reported in individuals aged 5 to 17.
- At least 20 of the cases involved people who were not vaccinated.
Kansas health officials report that the outbreak is concentrated in the southwestern part of the state, prompting concerns about further spread.
Measles Reaches Washington, D.C. During Cherry Blossom Season
Elsewhere, Washington, D.C. health officials confirmed a measles case on Tuesday, coinciding with the city’s famous cherry blossom season, which draws millions of tourists each year. The infected individual had traveled on Amtrak’s Northeast Regional route on March 19, potentially exposing passengers and commuters to the virus.
In 2024, the cherry blossom festival attracted 1.6 million visitors, making Washington a high-risk area for measles transmission. Health officials urge anyone who may have been exposed to monitor for symptoms and ensure their vaccinations are up to date.
Protecting Against Measles: What You Can Do
Health experts stress the importance of vaccination in preventing measles outbreaks. The CDC recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine, which is about 97% effective at preventing measles.
Parents and caregivers are advised to:
- Ensure children receive both doses of the MMR vaccine on schedule.
- Check vaccination records and get booster shots if necessary.
- Seek medical advice immediately if symptoms of measles appear.
- Avoid close contact with infected individuals and follow health department guidelines during outbreaks.
The rise in measles cases across the U.S. highlights the critical role of vaccinations in public health. With Ohio, Kansas, and other states experiencing outbreaks, officials are urging residents to take preventive measures seriously.
