An adult in Ashtabula County has been diagnosed with measles, marking the first case of the year in Ohio, the state Department of Health announced Thursday. 

The individual, who was unvaccinated, contracted the virus after contact with someone who had recently traveled internationally, said Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, director of the Ohio Department of Health.  Health officials did not reveal information about where the infected person lives.

The department says it is working with the Ashtabula County Health Department to trace potential exposures and promote vaccination efforts.  

"The fact that we now have a measles case in Ohio adds emphasis to the importance of being fully vaccinated," Vanderhoff said. "This disease can be very serious, but it is preventable. I strongly encourage you to protect yourselves and your children by getting vaccinated."

Measles is highly contagious and spreads through coughing and sneezing. The virus can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infected person has been present. Symptoms include a rash, high fever, runny nose, cough, loss of appetite, and red, watery eyes.  

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine for children, with the first dose given between 12 and 15 months of age and the second between 4 and 6 years of age. Adults born after 1957 who are not vaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown are also advised to get the MMR vaccine.  

Ohio reported 90 measles cases in 2022, with a large outbreak centered in central Ohio. The state had one case in 2023 and seven in 2024.  

Vanderhoff recently held a news conference to urge parents to ensure their children are up to date on all recommended vaccinations, including the MMR vaccine, given the recent measles outbreaks in other states.  

Complications from measles can be severe, especially for children under 5, adults over 20, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. Pneumonia is a common complication and the leading cause of death from measles in young children.  

Health officials are urging Ashtabula County residents and all Ohioans to ensure they are vaccinated against measles.