OSU mumps outbreak spreads to Franklin County, OH community, 56 cases confirmed in total

The Ohio State University mumps outbreak that, as of Friday, infected 40 people, has spread to the surrounding community in Franklin County, according to a Columbus Public Health (CPH) news release today.

Mumps Photo/CDC

CPH reports that as of Friday, March 21, 56 mumps cases have been reported in Franklin County, to include the OSU cases. The university cases have occurred in men and women between the ages of 18 and 48, while the community cases have occurred in residents of Columbus and Franklin County between the ages of 4 and 50.

This has prompted the CPH to encourage the public to get vaccinated.

“During a community outbreak, protection against mumps is critical to our good health, our family’s health, and our community’s health,” said Dr. Teresa C. Long, Columbus Public Health Commissioner.

“Mumps can lead to serious complications in people who are not vaccinated, especially adults. If you have not been vaccinated against the mumps, or do not remember if you have received the protective vaccine, get vaccinated as soon as possible.”

Children should receive the MMR vaccine on or after their first birthday, followed by a second dose at 4 to 6 years of age.

Residents can contact their primary care provider, local community health center, public health department or student health center if at a university setting for vaccine availability.

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