More measles cases reported in NJ

The NJ Dept. of Health wants to get the word out about two newly reported cases of the measles in Ocean County.

The infected individuals were exposed to the highly contagious viral disease while traveling abroad.

Anyone who has not been vaccinated for measles or has not had measles is at risk of contracting the disease.

Between Oct. 25 and Oct. 30, the sick individuals visited the following locations:

  • NPGS, 231 Main St, Lakewood, NJ 08701; October 25 between 9 a.m. a 12 p.m. and October 29 between 2:15 p.m. and 4:45 p.m.
  • Pizza Plus, 241 4th St, Lakewood, NJ 08701 on October 28 between 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Anyone who may have traveled to these locations and suspects they may be sick, should contact their health care provider immediately, urge officials.

Measles symptoms include rash, high fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes. It can cause serious complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis (swelling of the brain).

Measles infection in a pregnant woman can lead to miscarriage, premature birth or a low-birth-weight baby.

Measles is easily spread through the air when someone coughs or sneezes.

People can also get sick when they come in contact with mucus or saliva from an infected person.

. "Two doses of measles vaccine are about 97 percent effective in preventing measles,” said Dr. Christina Tan, state epidemiologist.

“We urge everyone to check to make sure they and their family members are up-to-date on measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) vaccine and all other age-appropriate immunizations. Getting vaccinated not only protects you, it protects others around you who are too young to get the vaccine or can’t receive it for medical reasons.

If you’re planning an international trip, the World Health Organization recommends that adults or adolescents unsure of their immune status get a dose of measles vaccine before traveling,” Dr. Tan added.

Last month, a man in his 20s in Lakewood was diagnosed with measles.