Possible Measles Exposure Reported at Columbus Airport

Ohio health officials warn travelers about potential exposure at John Glenn International Airport.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Ohio Department of Health has warned that individuals who traveled through John Glenn International Airport in Columbus on the evening of February 18, 2026 may have been exposed to measles. The potential exposure occurred between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. that day, and those who are not vaccinated against measles are advised to watch for symptoms over the next few weeks.

Why it matters

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can lead to serious complications, especially in young children. This potential exposure at a major airport raises concerns about the spread of the disease and highlights the importance of vaccination to protect public health.

The details

According to the Ohio Department of Health, six measles cases have been identified in Franklin County since February 1st, with five of the children involved being unvaccinated. The sixth child had only received one dose of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Health officials are working with the CDC to identify individuals who may have been exposed at the airport on February 18th.

  • The potential exposure occurred between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. on February 18, 2026.
  • Individuals who may have been exposed should watch for symptoms between February 25th and March 11th.

The players

Ohio Department of Health

The state health department that issued the warning about the potential measles exposure at John Glenn International Airport.

Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff

The director of the Ohio Department of Health who advised the public about the importance of vaccination and the risks of measles exposure.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The federal health agency that is working with the Ohio Department of Health to identify individuals who may have been exposed to measles at the Columbus airport.

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What they’re saying

“These most recent cases highlight the critical importance of everyone being up to date with their vaccines, due to the risk of potential exposure anytime we are in large, indoor public venues, such as airports. Measles can be very serious for children, and it is preventable. The vaccine can keep your child from getting this disease.”

— Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, Director, Ohio Department of Health (News release)

What’s next

The Ohio Department of Health is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to identify individuals who might have been exposed at the airport on February 18th.

The takeaway

This potential measles exposure at a major airport underscores the ongoing need for vaccination, especially in high-traffic public spaces, to protect vulnerable populations and prevent the spread of highly contagious diseases.