Notice of possible measles exposure

10-23-2026 (Akron, Mahoning Valley, Ohio)

Akron Children’s is committed to the health of the communities we serve and is notifying the public of a possible measles exposure that may have occurred at Akron Children’s Golisano Campus located at One Perkins Square, Akron, Ohio on Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026, between 8:03 and 10:03 a.m. on the yellow elevators in the main hospital building.

Akron Children's recommends anyone possibly exposed should follow the steps below to determine if you are immune to measles, and symptoms to look out for if you are not protected.

• Generally, you are considered immune if you were:
  • Born before 1957, or
  • Have received two doses of measles-containing vaccine, usually given as measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine.
  • If you have only received one dose of measles-containing vaccine, your risk of measles following this exposure is low. Discuss getting the second dose of the vaccine with your healthcare provider.

Look at your vaccination records or ask your healthcare provider to see if you have had two doses of this vaccine. If you have already had measles as diagnosed by a healthcare provider, or if you are immune to measles as defined above, you do not have to take any action apart from monitoring for symptoms. MMR vaccines are very effective at preventing measles. Immune individuals very rarely develop disease.

If you are not protected from measles, you should receive a dose of MMR vaccine. Talk to your healthcare provider to learn how you can get this vaccine.

Those who are under 12 months of age, pregnant and not immune, or are severely immunosuppressed (have a weakened immune system) should consult with their healthcare provider as soon as possible. Management of exposure to measles may be different with these conditions.

Measles is contagious for four days before to four days after the rash starts. If you are not immune and may have been exposed, you could spread measles before developing a rash. To prevent transmission, please wear a mask in indoor public spaces and around anyone who is unvaccinated until 21 days after the exposure.

Consult your healthcare provider or local public health department with additional questions.

What is measles?

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory viral illness. Symptoms may include:

• Fever (Temperature higher than 101 °F) AND
• Cough, runny nose or congestion, OR red or watery eyes
• Followed by a flat, red rash that typically begins on the face and spreads down the body.

Symptoms generally develop within seven to 21 days after exposure. Individuals who may have been exposed should self-monitor for symptoms through November 10, 2026.

What should you do if you develop symptoms?

If you develop symptoms consistent with measles, contact your healthcare provider or healthcare facility by phone before arriving in person. Please do not arrive without notifying the facility first.

Calling ahead allows healthcare providers and facilities to take the necessary precautions to protect staff, patients and visitors from potential exposure.

Our commitment to safety

The health and safety of our patients, families, staff and community remain Akron Children’s highest priority. We are following established protocols and working to ensure that individuals who may have been exposed receive appropriate guidance.

Anyone with questions or concerns about potential exposure should contact their local health department or healthcare provider.

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we take these precautionary measures to protect our community.