Health officials in Ohio are urging caution after a possible measles exposure at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. According to the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), individuals who traveled through Terminal A of the airport between specific times on January 27 and January 29 may have been exposed to measles.
The ODH is working closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as well as state and local health officials to identify and contact potentially exposed passengers. The agency emphasized that this warning is a precautionary measure and is related to a Montgomery County child who was infected with measles.
Measles is a highly contagious childhood infection caused by a virus. It can be serious and even fatal, especially for young children. Symptoms typically appear in two stages. The first stage includes a fever greater than 101 degrees, runny nose, watery red eyes, and a cough that develops between 7 and 14 days after exposure. The second stage occurs three to five days later and presents as a rash on the face that spreads to the rest of the body.
To prevent infection, the CDC recommends that individuals receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination. Vaccination is crucial in preventing the spread of measles and protecting vulnerable populations, such as young children who are unable to receive the vaccine.
This recent warning follows a similar alert issued by health officials in Washington, D.C., regarding a possible measles exposure at Dulles International Airport and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
It is important for individuals who may have been exposed to monitor their health closely and seek medical attention if they develop symptoms associated with measles. Prompt identification and treatment can help prevent further transmission of the virus.
As the ODH continues to work diligently to contact potentially exposed passengers, it serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination and maintaining awareness of potential health risks when traveling. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, individuals can help protect themselves and others from preventable diseases like measles.
