Measles concerns in Ocean County – Vaccination is key

The New Jersey Department of Health recently warned Ocean County residents about confirmed cases of measles. Others in Ocean County may have been exposed to this highly contagious disease between October 13 and November 9, 2018.

Measles is considered the most deadly of all childhood rash/fever illnesses. Symptoms may include high fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes and rash. Measles can have serious complications such as ear infections, pneumonia, swelling of the brain, and miscarriage in pregnant women.

The MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine protects children from measles, mumps and rubella.

Please ensure your patients are up to date with the appropriate vaccines, including the MMR vaccine.

Any suspected measles cases should be reported to the local health department within 24 hours and your office should follow the appropriate protocols.

For additional information, please visit the NJ Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.