HBRON, Ky. – Passengers at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport may have been exposed to measles last week, the Ohio Department of Health announced. The exposure took place in Terminal A during specific times on Saturday, Jan. 27 and Monday, Jan. 29. Health officials are concerned about the potential spread of the disease and are taking measures to identify and notify those who may have been exposed, including contacting passengers on specific flights.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that can cause symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a rash. The Ohio Department of Health advises anyone who may be developing symptoms to stay home and call their healthcare provider immediately. Authorities stress the importance of taking precautions, as the virus is known to live for up to two hours in the air after an infected person has left the area.
This potential exposure is related to a case of measles in Montgomery County, but health officials emphasize that this is not an additional case. The last confirmed case of measles in Montgomery County was reported in 2005. The Ohio Department of Health is collaborating with the CDC and other state and local health officials to prevent further spread of the virus and to ensure that those who may have been exposed are notified and can seek appropriate medical attention.
It is important to note that measles can be contagious from four days before the appearance of a rash to four days after. This means that individuals who may have been exposed should monitor their health closely and seek medical advice if they begin to exhibit symptoms. The virus is particularly dangerous for unvaccinated children, with nine out of ten exposed children becoming infected.
The potential exposure at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination and taking necessary precautions to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Health officials urge anyone who believes they may have been exposed to measles to seek medical advice and take appropriate measures to prevent the further spread of the virus.