Measles Cases Confirmed in Franklin County as OSU Opens New Hospital Tower
Columbus, OH – March 9, 2026 – Six measles cases in young children prompt contact tracing in Franklin County as Ohio State transitions patients into its new hospital tower.
Columbus Public Health is investigating six confirmed measles cases in Franklin County, all involving children under age 5, as Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center continues moving patients into its newly opened University Hospital tower on West 10th Avenue.
Measles Investigation Underway
According to local public health officials, five of the measles cases involve children in two households, and a sixth case involves a child in a separate household with recent international travel. Health officials said most of the children were unvaccinated, with one having received a single dose of the MMR vaccine.
Columbus Public Health has begun contact tracing and monitoring individuals who may have been exposed. Officials described the overall risk to the general public as low at the time of reporting but emphasized that measles is highly contagious and that vaccination remains the most effective protection.
The Ohio Department of Health also issued a notice tied to a potential exposure window at John Glenn Columbus International Airport in February, advising unvaccinated individuals who may have been present during the specified timeframe to follow public health guidance.
Ohio State Opens New University Hospital Tower
Meanwhile, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center has opened its new University Hospital tower at 520 W. 10th Ave. and began transferring patients into the facility. Reports indicate that more than 400 patients were moved as part of the transition into a building with more than 800 private rooms.
The new tower is designed to support a range of advanced services, including critical care, neurology, surgery and adult organ transplant programs. Hospital leaders have said the expanded capacity and private-room design are intended to improve patient experience and support infection control.
Patients with upcoming appointments or procedures are encouraged to verify check-in locations and parking instructions, as entrances and unit locations may differ from previous visits.
City Expands Alternative Crisis Response Program
City leaders also announced a $1 million expansion of Columbus’ Alternative Crisis Response Program. The investment is expected to add a team of five non-uniformed professionals to respond to certain mental and behavioral health calls when there is no immediate threat of violence.
The program works alongside existing mobile crisis teams and aims to connect residents to appropriate behavioral health resources, including coordination with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline when appropriate.
What Residents Should Know
Residents are encouraged to follow updates from Columbus Public Health regarding the measles investigation and to review their household vaccination records if needed. Those who believe they were present during a listed exposure window should follow official public health guidance.
For hospital visits, confirm directions and arrival details in advance during Ohio State’s transition period. For behavioral health crises, residents can access local crisis response services through 911 or 988 depending on the situation.
If you have urgent symptoms, seek medical care. For general questions, talk with a licensed clinician.
