Crawford County Public Health investigates suspected measles, mumps cases; urges MMR and flu vaccinations

BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Crawford County Public Health is awaiting test results after investigating suspected local cases of measles and mumps, prompting health officials to urge residents to verify their vaccination status.

Health Commissioner Kate Siefert and Director of Nursing Adrienne Whitmeyer addressed the recent investigations during a “Community Spotlight” broadcast, noting that a nationwide decline in immunization rates and international travel have allowed once-eradicated diseases to resurface.

Measles was declared eradicated in the United States in 2000, but more than 3,000 cases have been reported nationwide this year. According to Siefert, 97% of those cases involve unvaccinated individuals.

“Measles is more than just a little rash,” Siefert said. “We want people to really understand it better and what the vaccine can do.”

Whitmeyer noted that measles can cause dangerously high fevers and brain swelling, particularly in young children. The virus typically presents with a rash starting at the scalp and hairline before spreading down the body.

Two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine—first introduced in 1963—provide 97% protection. Health officials recommend the first dose for children between 12 and 15 months of age and the second between 4 and 6 years old. Unvaccinated older children and adults can receive the two doses 28 days apart.

Alongside MMR immunizations, the health department is administering seasonal flu vaccines for residents 6 months and older. Available options include the standard flu shot, preservative-free Flublok (containing three times the standard antigen) and a high-dose vaccine for adults 65 and older (containing four times the antigen).

In addition to walk-in appointments whenever a nurse is in the office, Crawford County Public Health offers curbside parking lot vaccinations for those with mobility issues, in-home visits for medically homebound residents and on-site workplace clinics for local businesses.

Residents can schedule an appointment or speak with a public health nurse by calling 419-562-5871 or visiting Crawford County Public Health at 1520 Isaac Beal Road in Bucyrus.