The United States is facing its most severe measles outbreak since the illness was considered eliminated in 2000,USA TODAY reports, driven in part by increasing cases in Utah and Arizona.
As per information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the United States has 1,596 confirmed measles cases in 42 states as of October 14. And Ohio is one of them, with itsmost recent occurrence documented on October 9thA surge in South Carolina has reached 16 confirmed cases,USA TODAY reports, with almost 140 elementary school students in quarantine due to being unvaccinated.
Here is a glimpse at the statistics in Ohio and across the country.
Measles outbreaks in Ohio during 2025
According to data provided by the Ohio Department of Health(ODH), Ohio has reported 42 confirmed measles cases in 2025 up to October 7, when the department last updated its information.
The most severe outbreaks, according to the CDC's definition of three or more connected cases, have occurred in Ashtabula and Knox counties, according to ODH information. Ashtabula has reported 16 cases, nine of which are connected to the state's initial measles case of 2025 in March,as per the state health department. And, Knox County Health Department announced20 verified cases in April. Nevertheless, ODH data indicates just 14 cases for that county.
Franklin County, where the latest outbreak occurred, ranks third with five reported cases. The Columbus Health Department has confirmed four instances of measles.in a post on X on October 9, the Dispatch had reported earlier.New Albany-Plain Local Schools notified guardiansOn October 3, it was announced that the Early Learning Center would temporarily shut down because of a positive measles case. The ELC and kindergarten building accommodates over 500 students.
As per ODH data, there were 90 measles cases in Ohio in 2022, 1 in 2023, and 7 in 2024.
United States is experiencing the most severe measles outbreak since 1992, according to CDC statistics.
According to data from the CDCThis year's measles outbreak is the most severe since 1992, when there were 2,126 reported cases. In 1990, there were even more cases, totaling 27,808. The U.S. recorded 285 measles cases in 2024, indicating a 550% increase in cases compared to 2025.
Around the country, the Utah Department of Health and Human ServicesForty-two cases have been confirmed as of September 24, according to USA TODAY. And theArizona Department of Health and Human Serviceshas documented 52 instances of measles up to September 23.
What is measles?
Measles is a very infectious and possibly serious illnesswhich leads to fever, skin rash, coughing, and red, teary eyes. In certain instances, measles may also cause brain swelling and harm to the nervous system. It is primarily transmitted through the air when someone with measles coughs or sneezes, and 90% of unvaccinated people who come into contact with measles will get infected.
Measles can be avoided through vaccination.
Measles is a disease that can be prevented through vaccination, and it was officially considered eliminated in the United States in 2000, indicating that there was no local transmission and any new cases were acquired outside the country. However, a drop in vaccination rates, withMore parents choosing to opt their children out of required vaccinations, has resulted in an increasing number of states ceasing to report figures that align with herd immunity, with infections making a comeback.
Is measles deadly?
Yes. The CDC indicates three fatalities due to measles this year. Additionally, 12% of measles cases (197 out of 1,596 total) have resulted in hospitalization.
When are infants given the measles vaccination? What does MMR, MMRV vaccine stand for?
The measles vaccine is typically administered as part of a combination shot to offer protection against additional illnesses. The MMR vaccine provides defense against measles, mumps, and rubella, whereas the MMRV includes the chickenpox (varicella) vaccine as well.as per the Mayo Clinic.
The initial dose is typically provided when the child is between 12 and 15 months old, followed by a second dose given between the ages of 4 and 6, shortly before they begin school.
Is it possible to contract measles even if you received the vaccine as a child?
It is uncommon, as stated by the Mayo Clinic. The vaccine has an effectiveness rate of 97%. For the few individuals who contract measles even after receiving the vaccination, their symptoms tend to be mild.
Is rubella the same as mumps?
Although rubella is also known as German measles or three-day measles, it is caused by a different virus,as per the Mayo Clinic. The two have similar symptoms, such as a skin rash. However, many individuals with rubella experience only slight symptoms or no symptoms whatsoever.
This piece first was published in The Columbus Dispatch:Measles cases in Ohio are increasing. What you need to be aware of