The number of people in 23 states affected by measles this year has climbed to over 800. Most of the cases have been in residents of New York, which is very close by. In order to prevent the spread of measles, and to protect our vulnerable population, anyone who is exposed to measles may be quarantined for several weeks if they do not have proof of vaccination or immunity.
Measles may cause serious complications in people who cannot be vaccinated due to medical conditions, and in babies too young to be vaccinated. Pregnancies may be adversely affected by exposure to measles. Although many people will experience rash, fever, red, watery eyes, and cough that eventually resolves, some people will experience complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), loss of hearing, and even death.
Measles is also highly contagious. It can be passed from person to person, usually by respiratory droplets, and through the air- by breathing. This virus can remain in the air for 2 hours after the infected person leaves the building.
Infected persons are contagious for 4 days before the appearance of the rash until 4 days after the appearance of the rash. An infected person may not have symptoms yet and still may be contagious.
Please be ready. Have your vaccination records handy. If you don’t know whether or not you were vaccinated, or if you have immunity from having the disease, please talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated, boostered, or having a blood test to prove immunity. The vaccination has been studied thoroughly for many years, and it is over 90% effective ( 2 vaccines are 97% effective). Please help to protect yourself and your community. Be ready.
For more details about measles, please see the NJ Department of Health website: www.state.nj.us/health/cd/topics/measles.shtml