Health Officials Warn of Possible Measles Spike After Westerville Exposure Case

Franklin County Public Health on high alert as more schools prepare for spring break travel.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 1:55am

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Franklin County Public Health officials are warning families to be on alert after a recent measles exposure tied to a student returning from spring break in Westerville, Ohio. The county has seen 14 measles cases since the start of the year, and with more school districts across Central Ohio going on vacation in the coming weeks, officials are concerned about the potential for more infections.

Why it matters

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can lead to serious complications, especially in young children. The rise in measles cases in Franklin County is concerning, as it indicates the disease may be spreading in the community. Public health officials are urging families to ensure their vaccinations are up to date to help prevent further outbreaks.

The details

The measles exposure occurred after a student who traveled during spring break visited a CVS pharmacy in Westerville. Franklin County Public Health said the student did not go onto the Otterbein University campus. With more school districts in Central Ohio preparing for spring break travel in the coming weeks, officials are worried about the potential for additional cases. During a previous measles exposure in New Albany last October, the school district began contact tracing and shut down the Early Learning Center for cleaning. The district also required proof of MMR vaccination before anyone could return to the classroom.

  • The measles exposure occurred after a student returned from spring break.
  • Franklin County has seen 14 measles cases since the start of 2026.
  • More Central Ohio school districts are preparing for spring break travel in the coming weeks.

The players

Dr. Myshika Roberts

Health commissioner for Columbus Public Health.

Alexandria Jones

Assistant health commissioner and director of prevention and wellness for Franklin County Public Health.

Michael Sawyer

Superintendent of New Albany-Plain Local Schools.

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What they’re saying

“I feel like we're going backwards when we really should be going forwards and this is just one disease.”

— Dr. Myshika Roberts, Health commissioner for Columbus Public Health

“There could be additional cases that are going to be forthcoming. So, what are those preemptive steps that you can take?”

— Alexandria Jones, Assistant health commissioner and director of prevention and wellness for Franklin County Public Health

“When we went to school to be educators, I didn't go to school to be a health official, but I've learned a lot about health related matters based upon what's happened in our world. I think sharing that information is critical to the success of all students in their safety and welfare.”

— Michael Sawyer, Superintendent of New Albany-Plain Local Schools

What’s next

Health officials warned that measles symptoms, including fever and rash, can develop seven to 21 days after exposure. Anyone who is sick should stay home and immediately contact a health care provider.

The takeaway

The measles outbreak in Franklin County highlights the importance of vaccination and the need for proactive measures to prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease, especially as families prepare for spring break travel. Public health officials are urging all residents to ensure their MMR vaccinations are up to date.