Measles Monitoring Continues in Franklin County as Airport Exposure Window Nears End

By

Columbus, OH – March 10, 2026 – Health officials continue measles contact tracing in Franklin County as airport exposure monitoring runs through March 11.

Franklin County health officials are continuing contact tracing and public monitoring after six measles cases were confirmed in young children, with a related exposure window at John Glenn Columbus International Airport extending through March 11.

Six Measles Cases Confirmed in Franklin County

Columbus Public Health has confirmed six measles cases in children under age 5 in Franklin County. According to reporting by WOSU, five of the children were unvaccinated and one had received a single dose of the MMR vaccine.

Health officials said the cases are linked to three households. Contact tracing is ongoing to identify and monitor anyone who may have been exposed. Columbus Public Health Director Dr. Mysheika Roberts told WOSU that the overall risk to the general public was considered low at the time of the report, while emphasizing the role of vaccination in preventing further spread.

Airport Exposure Advisory Through March 11

The Ohio Department of Health issued a public notice that travelers at John Glenn Columbus International Airport during a specified evening window in mid-February may have been exposed to measles. State officials said vaccinated individuals are at very low risk of becoming ill.

Unvaccinated individuals who were present during the exposure period were advised to follow public health guidance and monitor for symptoms through March 11. State officials reported they are working with federal and local partners to notify potentially affected travelers.

City Expands Alternative Crisis Response Program

Separately, Columbus leaders announced a $1 million investment to expand the city’s Alternative Crisis Response Program. According to reporting by WOSU and other local outlets, the funding will add a team of five non-uniformed behavioral health professionals and increase clinician involvement in certain 911 responses.

The program is designed to connect residents experiencing mental or behavioral health crises with appropriate care, including referrals to community services and the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, when there is no immediate threat of violence.

What Residents Should Know

Public health officials continue to stress that measles is highly contagious and that vaccination significantly reduces risk. Residents who believe they were present during the airport exposure window should follow guidance from the Ohio Department of Health and Columbus Public Health.

City leaders say the expanded crisis response teams are expected to increase access to behavioral health support in non-violent emergency situations.

If you have urgent symptoms, seek medical care. For general questions, talk with a licensed clinician.

Sources

Related