Possible Measles Exposure at CVG Airport in Ohio Raises Concerns
A recent announcement by the Ohio Health Department (ODH) has raised concerns about a possible measles exposure at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG). According to ODH officials, individuals who traveled through CVG on specific dates and times in January may have been exposed to the highly contagious virus.
The potential exposure occurred in Terminal A during two separate time frames: January 27 between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m., and January 29 between 8:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. ODH is currently collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as state and local health officials, to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed, including passengers on specific flights.
Measles is a viral infection that typically manifests in two stages. In the first stage, individuals may experience symptoms such as a high fever (above 101 degrees), a runny nose, watery eyes, and a cough. These symptoms usually appear 7 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. The second stage of symptoms begins 3 to 5 days after the initial symptoms, during which a distinct rash develops on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
It is important to note that individuals infected with measles are contagious from four days before the rash appears until four days after. The virus can survive in the air for up to two hours, making it highly transmissible. In fact, up to 90% of unvaccinated individuals who come into contact with an infected person are likely to contract the illness.
The recent exposure at CVG is linked to a child from Montgomery County, who has become Ohio’s first reported case of measles this year. In 2023, Ohio had only one case of measles; however, an outbreak in 2022 resulted in a significant increase in cases, with the state recording a total of 90 cases, 85 of which were linked to the outbreak in central Ohio.
Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, the director of the Ohio Department of Health, emphasized the seriousness of measles and stressed the importance of vaccination in preventing its spread. “Measles can be a very serious illness for anyone,” he stated. “The key to preventing measles is vaccination. If you are not vaccinated, we strongly encourage you to get the vaccine.”
Measles is a highly preventable disease through vaccination. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective, providing long-term protection against the virus. It is recommended that individuals receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, with the first dose administered at 12 to 15 months of age and the second dose at 4 to 6 years of age.
In light of the potential exposure at CVG, health officials are urging individuals who may have been at the airport during the specified dates and times to monitor themselves for symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary. Additionally, individuals who have not been vaccinated against measles are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated to protect themselves and prevent further spread of the virus.
As health authorities continue their efforts to identify and notify potentially exposed individuals, it is crucial for everyone to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. Measles is a highly contagious disease that can have serious consequences, but with proper vaccination and awareness, we can work together to minimize its impact on public health.
