Health officials warn of possible measles exposure in Sugarcreek
SUGARCREEK – Health officials have issued a warning about a possible measles exposure last week.
Tuscarawas County Health Department Commissioner Katie Seward says there are no active cases of measles in Tuscarawas County, but two Ashtabula County residents with active measles infections were at the Smokey Lane Stables in Sugarcreek on Friday July 17.
The Tuscarawas County Health Department is asking anyone who was there to check their vaccination status, watch for symptoms, and take other precautions listed in a news release.
Potential Measles Exposure News Release July 23 2026
Seward says early symptoms mirror those of a common cold – high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes – but potentially with a high fever. Then 3 to 5 days later, a rash emerges.
Health officials say if anybody who was at the Stables develops an illness with a fever or an unexplained rash they should contact a health provider. They should not go to the hospital without first calling ahead so the hospital can take appropriate steps to limit exposure.
Seward says the general public shouldn’t panic. But if they are concerned they can check their vaccination status.
“Having potential measles exposure in our area highlights the importance of being fully vaccinated,” Seward said. “Measles can be very serious; however, it’s also preventable. I encourage our community to protect themselves and their families by getting vaccinated.”
A press release from the TCHD added: “The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends all children get two doses of measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, starting with the first dose at 12 through 15 months of age and the second dose at 4 through 6 years of age. Older children, adolescents, and adults should receive one or two doses of MMR vaccine if they do not have evidence of immunity. If you have received two doses of the MMR vaccine, your chances of getting measles are very low. After two doses, the vaccine is 97% effective at preventing measles.”