TRENTON – The New Jersey Department of Health has confirmed a case of measles in an Ocean County resident and is urging the public to ensure vaccinations are up to date to prevent the spread of the highly contagious disease.
The individual case does not constitute an outbreak under federal guidelines, which define an outbreak as three or more related cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. No additional associated cases have been identified in New Jersey as of July 10.
Health officials are working with local partners to conduct contact tracing and notify people who may have been exposed. Those potentially exposed could develop symptoms through July 22.
Measles symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, watery red eyes, and a rash that typically spreads from the face downward. The virus can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, miscarriage, premature birth, or low birth weight in pregnant individuals.
Residents who believe they may have been exposed or are showing symptoms are urged to contact their local health department or health care provider before visiting any medical facility to avoid exposing others. The state health department emphasized the importance of calling ahead so proper precautions can be taken.
Measles spreads through the air and can linger in a room for up to two hours after an infected person has left. People can also become infected through contact with mucus or saliva.
The Department of Health recommends all residents, especially children and international travelers, remain current on the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. The vaccine is administered in two doses and is considered the most effective way to protect against the virus and its complications.
Infants between 6 and 11 months traveling internationally should receive one dose of the MMR vaccine prior to travel, followed by two additional doses after their first birthday.
Health care providers are being asked to use all patient visits as opportunities to review immunization records and ensure vaccinations are up to date. Providers referring suspected measles cases or exposures are required to contact the receiving facility in advance.
More information is available at www.nj.gov/health.
