Measles reported in another Northeast Ohio county

TUSCARAWAS COUNTY, Ohio (WOIO) - The Tuscarawas County Health Department said Thursday that a resident has tested positive for measles and is recovering at home.

Health officials said this case is believed to be linked to the measles exposure previously reported at Smokey Lane Stables in Sugarcreek, Tuscarawas County on July 17.

The individual was likely exposed during the event and later developed symptoms consistent with measles, according to a news release.

The local and state health departments are now working to identify and notify anyone who may have been exposed.

People who have weakened immune systems may take longer to experience symptoms.

According to the release, anyone seeking testing should contact their healthcare provider. You should not arrive at a healthcare facility without calling ahead if measles is suspected.

The Tuscarawas County Health Department medical office does not provide measles testing or treatment.

To schedule a measles (MMR) vaccination appointment or request immunization records, call the Tuscarawas County Health Department at 330-343-5555, ext. 1000.

Here are tips on how to spot symptoms of measles and how to protect yourself, from the Ohio Department of Health:

Measles is extremely contagious and can spread to others through coughing and sneezing. It can be brought into Ohio by individuals who travel to places where measles is spreading. If people are not protected against the disease, nine out of 10 people who are exposed will become ill.

The measles vaccine (called MMR as it protects against measles, mumps and rubella) is safe and effective at preventing measles. Two doses of MMR are 97% effective against measles. If you are up to date on the measles vaccine, the risk of getting sick is extremely low.

The measles virus can live for up to two hours in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. If other people breathe the contaminated air or touch an infected surface and then touch their eyes, noses, or mouths, they can become infected. People infected with measles can spread it to others from four days before through four days after a rash appears.

Measles symptoms include a rash, high fever, runny nose, cough, loss of appetite, and red, watery eyes. The rash usually lasts 5-6 days and begins at the hairline, moves to the face and upper neck, and proceeds down the body. Diarrhea and ear infections are common complications of measles. More severe complications may also occur.

Complications from measles are more common among children younger than 5 years of age, adults older than 20 years of age, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems. As many as one out of every 20 children with measles gets pneumonia, the most common cause of death from measles in youth.