Health officials are investigating potential exposures and notifying people who may have come into contact with the infected individual.
WAVERLY, Ohio — The Pike County General Health District has confirmed a laboratory-confirmed case of measles in Pike County and is working to identify possible exposures and notify people who may have been in contact with the infected person.
The health district announced the case Wednesday and said follow-up investigations are underway.
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can spread before an infected person begins showing symptoms. The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area, according to the health district.
People who are not vaccinated are considered at highest risk for infection.
Symptoms can include high fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, and a rash that usually appears three to five days after other symptoms begin.
Symptoms generally develop seven to 14 days after exposure, though health officials said they can take as long as 21 days to appear. Symptoms may also develop later in people with compromised immune systems.
Measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, dehydration, and swelling of the brain. The health district said about one in five unvaccinated people in the United States who contract measles are hospitalized.
Pregnant women who are not vaccinated may also face an increased risk of complications, including premature birth or delivering a baby with a low birth weight.
Health officials are urging anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with measles to avoid contact with others and contact a healthcare provider immediately.
People who believe they may have measles should call their provider before arriving at a medical office or hospital so staff can take precautions to reduce the risk of exposing other patients and employees.
The health district said the best protection against measles is vaccination.
The measles, mumps, and rubella, or MMR, vaccine is routinely recommended for children at 12 to 15 months of age and again at 4 to 6 years old. Two doses are approximately 97% effective at preventing measles, according to the health district.
People who are unsure of their vaccination status are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider or the Pike County General Health District.
Those born before 1957 are generally considered likely to have immunity from previous exposure, though anyone with questions about immunity or vaccination history should consult a healthcare provider.
In some cases, vaccination or medication may be recommended after an exposure to help prevent illness or reduce its severity.
Anyone with questions about symptoms, exposure, or vaccination can contact the Pike County General Health District at 740-947-7721.
