By NewsDesk  @bactiman63

The number of measles cases in Central Ohio have increased by 9 cases since our last report, as Columbus city health officials put the outbreak tally to 59 children 17 years and younger, as of December 7.

Image/TDH

Fifty six of the cases were unvaccinated, while three were partially vaccinated (one dose of the MMR vaccine).

23 cases required hospitalization for their illness and no deaths were reported.

March of Dimes statement

March of Dimes is concerned about the dangerous measles outbreak in Ohio, where health officials report a spike in cases among unvaccinated children – the majority of whom are children two years old or younger (40).

March of Dimes Board of Trustees Vice Chair Dr. David L. Lakey issued the following statement in response to this new threat:

“Measles is highly contagious disease and can be dangerous to the health of newborns, children and adults. March of Dimes encourages all families to vaccinate their children against measles and other vaccine-preventable illnesses. Pregnant women who contract measles are at risk for more severe complications of the illness, as well as at increased risk for preterm birth. 

Vaccines are among the most effective means of preventing infectious diseases. We recognize that COVID-19 led to a further reduction in routine vaccination rates in the U.S., but now is the time for all families to ensure they are up-to-date on their vaccines. Women who are thinking of having a baby or trying to conceive are encouraged to protect themselves and their future baby by ensuring they are caught up on their vaccinations. The MMR vaccine is not recommended during pregnancy, and can only be given before conception or postpartum. 

We urge families to speak with their primary care doctor about routine vaccinations or visit marchofdimes.org/vaccines for more information on vaccines and links to find local providers who deliver no cost vaccines to eligible families.”