Ohio measles case sparks controversy online

Following a reported case of measles in Ohio, some social media users claimed the myth that reports of measles cases are a scare tactic meant to skew election results later this year. Others are baselessly accusing “illegal immigrants” of bringing measles into Ohio.

Risk level: Medium

Recommendation: These types of posts may discourage patients in the Midwest from getting the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine for themselves or for their children due to doubts about the vaccine’s necessity. Messaging may emphasize that measles is a potentially life-threatening disease that is easily prevented by vaccination. The CDC recommends the MMR vaccine for children at 12-15 months, adults who do not have presumptive evidence of immunity, and international travelers.