Case of measles confirmed in Cleveland: residents of Cuyahoga County advised to self-isolate after possible contact
Cleveland, Ohio — As the United States faces a resurgence of measles cases — a disease previously considered nearly eradicated — a local case has been detected in Cuyahoga County, prompting the Health Department to issue an official public warning.
An unvaccinated child diagnosed with measles received medical care at Hillcrest hospital on May 2 and returned to the emergency department on May 4. According to Cuyahoga County Board of Health (CCBH), the child was examined and sent home in quarantine “for the duration of the illness.”
Health professionals expressed concern about potential spread of the virus among individuals present in the hospital's Atrium lobby during that period. Specifically, this concerns the time window from 15:50 to 18:15 on May 2. Everyone who was in the risk zone and does not have confirmed immunity is advised to adhere to a 21-day quarantine and avoid public places.
“This is not about panic. It’s about responsibility. If you are unvaccinated — stay home,” — emphasized the department.
Who should stay at home?
According to CCBH, individuals are considered immune to measles if:
they have received two doses of the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) after 12 months of age,
they have a positive blood test for measles antibodies,
they were born before December 31, 1956 (generally assumed to have had measles in childhood).
Individuals who do not meet any of the above criteria may be potentially susceptible to infection.
For vaccination or quarantine consultations, CCBH recommends calling 216-201-2000 or visiting their website.
Cases are rising nationwide
This case is just a drop in a worrying trend. According to CDC, the U.S. has already surpassed 1,000 laboratory-confirmed measles cases this year, the highest since the early 1990s. The largest outbreak was recorded in West Texas, but cases have been reported in nearly all states.
Despite years of vaccination efforts, experts warn that a decline in MMR vaccine coverage — partly due to misinformation — creates ideal conditions for the disease to make a comeback.
“Measles is not an innocent childhood disease. It is a highly contagious and potentially deadly infection,” — remind the CDC.
CCBH and local doctors encourage residents to stay calm — but also to take decisive action: check their vaccinations, isolate if necessary, and consult a doctor if in doubt.
Information is our first line of defense, vaccination is our best protection.
