The scope of a central Ohio measles outbreak continues to grow, with local health officials now confirming 32 cases.
The infections are linked to at least 12 local schools and day care centers, although health officials have not publicly identified the affected facilities.
Of the 32 children with confirmed cases, 31 were unvaccinated against measles, while the vaccination status of one child was listed as unknown.
Sixty-three percent of the children confirmed to have measles are 1 to 2 years old, while 19% are 3 to 5 years old. Four are younger than a year old and two are between ages 6 and 17.
Thirteen of the children affected have been hospitalized. There have been no reported deaths at this time.
The outbreak began in June with the first recorded measles case in Columbus in over 20 years. Last week, Columbus Public Health launched an online dashboard to track daily case numbers.
Columbus Health Commissioner Dr. Mysheika Roberts says case numbers will likely continue to grow.
Measles is caused by a virus that can be spread through breathing, coughing or sneezing. It often presents flu-like symptoms, as well as a red rash on the body.
