2 more measles cases confirmed in Knox County
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Two more measles cases were confirmed in Knox County on Friday.
Knox Public Health on Monday announced two more cases were confirmed in international travelers in the county. The individuals are isolated and being monitored. See related video in the player above.
No other close contacts were identified, the agency said.
On Wednesday, the Ohio Department of Health reported a measles outbreak in the state after there were a total of 10 cases confirmed in Ashtabula County.
Ohio Department of Health Director Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff encouraged parents to get their children vaccinated, as children are at a higher risk.
“Given the measles activity in Texas, New Mexico, and other states around the country, we’re disappointed but not surprised we now have several cases in Ohio and known exposure in some counties,” Vanderhoff said in a statement. “This disease can be very serious, even deadly, but it is almost entirely avoidable by being properly vaccinated.”
“I strongly urge all parents across Ohio to make sure your children are vaccinated,” he said. “It is a crucial layer of protection that can save lives.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a measles outbreak is defined as three or more related cases. The disease spreads quickly and is extremely contagious. The virus can live in the air for up to two hours after an infected person coughs or sneezes.