Doctors battle measles outbreak in central Ohio; at least 80 cases reported

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WOIO) – A measles outbreak is reported in Columbus, with 82 cases so far confirmed.

Of the 82 confirmed cases, all children are 17 years of age or younger, and 74 have not been vaccinated.

According to the Columbus Department of Public Health, 32 are hospitalized without death.

The CDC reports that symptoms of measles, which include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes, appear within a week or two of exposure to the virus.

The rash may also appear three to five days after it appears.

According to Columbus public health officials, cases of measles have been found in the following locations:

• The dollar tree at 5990 Westerville Rd. – December 1, 18:20–20:50.
• Macy’s and JCPenney stores at Polaris Mall at 1500 Polaris Pkwy – 18:30–22:30 November 25.
• Jesus Power God Assembly at 5215 Cleveland Ave. – 10:00–14:30, November 20
• Meyer at 6175 Sawmill Rd. – November 19, 17:30–20:30.

Officials are urging anyone who has been to one of these locations and has not been vaccinated to watch for symptoms.

Symptoms may develop up to 21 days after infection.

The MMR vaccine is critical to preventing the spread of measles, as 90% of unvaccinated people exposed to the virus will become infected, according to Columbus health officials.