Back to School Vaccines & Cyclospora Outbreak: What Ohio parents need to know
FOX19
Last updated: August 5, 2026
Ohio law mandates that students receive specific vaccinations for school attendance, although certain exemptions are permitted. This article addresses essential information for parents regarding back-to-school vaccinations and a recent Cyclospora outbreak.
- Ohio requires students to be vaccinated against measles, mumps, rubella, polio, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, and varicella.
- Exemptions from vaccination requirements are allowed for medical reasons and, in some cases, for religious or philosophical beliefs, though these may be subject to state and local regulations.
- Parents are advised to ensure their children's vaccinations are up-to-date before the start of the school year to comply with legal requirements.
- The article also alerts parents to a Cyclospora outbreak, a parasitic infection that can cause gastrointestinal illness.
- Symptoms of Cyclospora infection include diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, and vomiting.
- The outbreak's source is being investigated, and public health officials are providing guidance on prevention and treatment.
- Recommendations include thorough washing of fruits and vegetables and safe food handling practices to avoid contamination.
- Parents should consult with healthcare providers for any concerns about their child's vaccination status or potential exposure to Cyclospora.
- Information on where to get vaccinated and advice on managing illness are available from local health departments.
