Mercer County Health District Confirms Measles Case in County Resident

CELINA, Ohio (October 31, 2026) – The Mercer County Health District is reporting one laboratory-confirmed case of measles in a Mercer County resident.

Health officials say they are conducting follow-up investigations to identify any potential exposures. However, based on information currently available, the department believes it is unlikely the infected individual exposed members of the public during their infectious period.

The health district says there is evidence that measles is circulating throughout the region. Ohio has recorded approximately 300 confirmed measles cases so far in 2026, while Indiana has reported approximately 100 cases.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause serious illness. The virus spreads through the air and can remain in an environment for up to two hours after an infected person leaves.

Symptoms typically appear 10 to 12 days after exposure and initially include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A red, blotchy rash generally develops several days later, beginning on the head and face before spreading down the body.

Individuals infected with measles are contagious from four days before until four days after the rash appears.

Health officials emphasize that vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles. Two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine are approximately 97 percent effective at preventing the disease.

The recommended vaccination schedule calls for children to receive their first dose between 12 and 15 months of age and their second dose between ages 4 and 6, typically before entering kindergarten.

Children can receive their second dose as soon as 28 days after their first vaccination.

Individuals who have documentation of a previous measles infection or were born before 1957 are also generally considered immune.

The Mercer County Health District encourages residents to review their vaccination records and contact the department if they need their first or second dose of the MMR vaccine.

Parents are also reminded to follow school and daycare illness policies and keep sick children at home.

Anyone who suspects they have been exposed to measles or is experiencing symptoms should isolate themselves and seek medical attention. Health officials stress the importance of calling a healthcare provider before arriving at a medical facility so precautions can be taken to prevent additional exposure.

The Mercer County Health District says it will continue monitoring the situation and provide updates as necessary.

Residents with questions about measles, vaccination records, or scheduling an MMR vaccination can contact the Mercer County Health District at 419-586-3251.