Franklin County Public Health (FCPH) is currently investigating a confirmed case of measles in a student in the New Albany-Plain Local School District. The case is unvaccinated and had recently travelled internationally. FCPH is working closely with partners at Columbus Public Health (CPH) and the school district to notify families and conduct contact tracing for those who live in New Albany and Columbus. Early investigative results show that there is no risk to the general public at this time. The child and family are currently isolating at home.

Measles is a highly contagious and potentially severe disease that causes fever, rash, cough, and red, watery eyes. It mainly spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. The best defense against measles infection is the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. The MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective at preventing measles. One dose of MMR vaccine is 93% effective, and two doses are 97% effective at preventing measles.

State of Ohio guidance requires that unvaccinated children and adults that may have been exposed quarantine for 21 days post exposure. Public health will work directly with families with unvaccinated members to offer further guidance and assistance.

Both local health departments are working with the Ohio Department of Health and the New Albany-Plain Local School District to protect public health by conducting contact tracing and providing education and MMR vaccines to those at risk of infection.

FCPH in collaboration with Columbus Public Health will hold a vaccine clinic on Saturday, October 11 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the New Albany Early Learning Center Gymnasium located at 5101 Swickard Woods Blvd.

• Shots are free.
• No ID or insurance is required, but if you have an insurance card, please bring it. You will not be billed.
• No one will be turned away.
• All are welcome—just walk in!

For more information on measles, please visit the FCPH website and/or the CDC website.