Ohio health officials are investigating new possible measles exposure events as the state faces its third measles outbreak of 2026. According to the Ohio Department of Health, recent cases include individuals in Ashtabula County and Tuscarawas County, all of whom were unvaccinated.
The outbreak has prompted follow‑up on potential exposure locations, with health departments working to notify anyone who may have been in affected areas. Ohio has reported 15 measles cases so far in 2026, following 45 cases in 2025, showing a continued rise in infections statewide.
Measles is extremely contagious, capable of lingering in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves. Symptoms typically include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a spreading rash. Health officials emphasize that the MMR vaccine is 97% effective and remains the strongest protection against infection.
Ohio’s ongoing outbreaks reflect a broader national trend, with the United States experiencing its highest measles case numbers in 35 years.
10‑8 News will continue monitoring updates from state and local health departments as additional exposure details become available.