WAVERLY, Ohio — The Pike County General Health District has confirmed a laboratory-positive case of measles in Pike County and is conducting follow-up investigations to identify potential exposures and notify individuals who may have been exposed.
The health district announced the case Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026.
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can spread easily, including before an infected person develops symptoms. According to the health district, the virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
People who are not vaccinated are at the highest risk of infection.
Symptoms of measles
Symptoms can include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Watery or red eyes
- A rash that typically begins three to five days after other symptoms appear
Symptoms generally develop seven to 14 days after exposure, although it can take as long as 21 days for symptoms to appear. The onset may be delayed in people with compromised immune systems.
Measles can lead to serious complications. The health district said about one in five unvaccinated people in the United States who contract measles are hospitalized. Complications can include pneumonia, dehydration and swelling of the brain.
Unvaccinated pregnant women may also face an increased risk of complications, including premature birth or having a low-birth-weight baby.
Health district urges residents to take precautions
Anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with measles is urged to avoid contact with others and contact their healthcare provider immediately.
The health district also advises residents to call their healthcare provider before arriving at a medical facility if they believe they have been exposed to measles or are experiencing symptoms. Calling ahead allows medical personnel to take precautions to prevent exposing other patients and staff.
Residents with questions about symptoms, possible exposure or vaccination status can contact their healthcare provider or the Pike County General Health District at 740-947-7721.
Vaccination remains the best protection
The health district said vaccination is the best way to protect against measles.
The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is routinely recommended at 12–15 months of age and again at 4–6 years of age. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are approximately 97% effective at preventing measles.
People who are unsure of their vaccination status should contact their healthcare provider to determine whether vaccination is recommended.
Individuals born before 1957 are generally considered likely to have immunity to measles through previous exposure, according to the health district.
In certain circumstances, vaccination or medication may be recommended following exposure to measles to help prevent or reduce the severity of illness. Anyone who believes they may have been exposed is encouraged to contact their healthcare provider or the health district as soon as possible.
For additional information, residents can contact the Pike County General Health District at 740-947-7721.
