Health officials report decline in flu cases but monitor measles outbreak in Texas

The Summit County Board of Health convened on March 3, 2025, to discuss various public health issues, including flu trends, RSV, COVID-19, and measles vaccination efforts. The meeting began with a review of the current flu season, which has shown a double spike in cases, a trend observed nationwide. Health officials noted that flu cases are declining and returning to pre-COVID patterns, although the seasonality of flu has been altered in recent years.

The discussion highlighted that flu cases are confirmed through laboratory tests conducted during doctor visits, providing a reliable marker for community health trends. RSV cases were also addressed, indicating a moderate level of activity with fewer than ten cases reported weekly. COVID-19 cases continue to decrease, with the majority of the state classified in the low to moderate range for virus activity.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the ongoing measles outbreak in Texas and New Mexico, primarily affecting unvaccinated individuals. Summit County's vaccination rate for school-aged children stands at approximately 87%, below the herd immunity threshold of 95%. The board emphasized the importance of monitoring health symptoms and ensuring vaccination records are accessible to encourage immunization against measles.

Health officials discussed the potential need for a booster vaccine for individuals who may have received an ineffective version of the measles vaccine in the past. They also noted the importance of public awareness regarding measles symptoms, which include cough, conjunctivitis, and rash, as well as the highly contagious nature of the disease.

The meeting concluded with a call for the selection of a new health chair and vice chair, indicating a transition in leadership within the board. The board's proactive measures and ongoing monitoring of public health trends reflect a commitment to safeguarding community health in Summit County.