With a rising number of rotavirus cases being reported across the country and in New Jersey this spring, experts from Hackensack Meridian Children&rsquo;s Health are urging parents to ensure their children are vaccinated against this common and potentially severe illness. Rotavirus is a contagious virus that can cause gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Symptoms include severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain, which can lead to dehydration, hospitalization, and &ndash; in rare cases &ndash; death.
Before the introduction of the rotavirus vaccine in 2006, nearly every child in the United States was infected with the virus at least once by their 5th birthday. <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/pinkbook/hcp/table-of-contents/chapter-19-rotavirus.html#:~:text=In%20the%20prevaccine%20era%2C%20an,age%203%20to%2035%20months." target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)</a>, this resulted in more than 400,000 doctor visits, more than 200,000 emergency room visits, 55,000 to 70,000 hospitalizations, and 20 to 60 deaths annually in children under five. Since the vaccine's introduction, the CDC estimates that hospitalizations for rotavirus among young children in the U.S. have dropped by 40,000 to 50,000 each year.
For New Jersey in particular, data from the <a href="https://data.wastewaterscan.org/tracker?charts=CmEQACABSABSBmUxMzZjMVIGZDU4Yjg5UgY3M2U2MWNSBjU0N2M1ZFIGYWQ2OWRiUgZjNTlmMmVaBFJvdGFyCjIwMjUtMDQtMTZyCjIwMjYtMDQtMTaKAQZjNTViMWK4AZML&amp;selectedChartId=c55b1b" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">WastewaterSCAN dashboard</a> (a public surveillance tool that tracks infectious disease pathogens in wastewater in real time and utilized by the CDC&rsquo;s Wastewater Monitoring Program) shows a general resurgence across the state.
"Vaccination is the most effective tool we have to protect our children from rotavirus," says <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/daniel-ruderfer/3183810" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">Daniel Ruderfer, M.D.</a>, chief of pediatric infectious disease at K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center (JSUMC). "The vaccine has an excellent safety profile and has been proven to prevent severe illness, keeping children out of the hospital and giving parents peace of mind."
"The rotavirus vaccine is a safe and highly effective tool for preventing severe diarrheal disease in young children. We've seen a dramatic decrease in hospitalizations due to rotavirus since the vaccine's introduction, which means fewer children are suffering from the serious complications of the illness, such as dehydration,&rdquo; notes <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/harpreet-pall/1316806" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">Harpreet Pall, M.D.</a>, chief medical officer at JSUMC whose specialty is pediatric gastroenterology at K. Hovnanian Children&rsquo;s Hospital.
&ldquo;We strongly encourage parents to speak with their pediatrician to ensure their children are protected," adds Dr. Pall, who is also a professor of pediatrics at the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine.&nbsp;
The rotavirus vaccine is given orally in two or three doses, depending on the brand, starting when a baby is two months old. It is crucial for infants to receive the first dose before 15 weeks of age and to complete the series before they turn 8 months old.
"As pediatricians, our goal is always prevention first. The rotavirus vaccine is a cornerstone of our infant immunization schedule because it prevents a common, miserable, and potentially dangerous illness. Before the vaccine, our emergency rooms saw a constant flow of dehydrated infants. Today, it's a largely preventable disease. We urge all parents to ensure their baby gets this simple but life-saving protection," says <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/stefan-hagmann/2444630" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">Stefan Hagmann, M.D.</a>, chief of pediatric infectious diseases at <a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/locations/hackensack-university-medical-center" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">Hackensack Meridian Hackensack University Medical Center,</a> and professor of Pediatrics, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine.&nbsp;
Additional information can be found at: <a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/childrens-health/vaccine-facts" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/childrens-health/vaccine-facts</a>.&nbsp;

Monmouth County

New York City Metropolitan Area

Asbury Park

New Jersey

K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital Experts Stress...

With a rising number of rotavirus cases being reported across the country and in New Jersey this spring, experts from Hackensack Meridian Children...

K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital Experts Stress the Importance of Vaccination as Rotavirus Surges

While an uncomfortable topic for many men, testicular cancer is a common cancer in American men between the ages of 15 and 35. While a highly curable disease if caught early, the reluctance to talk about it can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment. <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/mina-m-fam/1497224" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">Mina Fam, M.D.</a>, director of uro-oncology at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center and director of robotic surgery at Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center, notes early detection is crucial &ndash; not only for successful treatment but also for managing the long-term effects that can surface decades later. He shares more during this Testicular Cancer Awareness Month.While testicular cancer is relatively rare, accounting for about 1 in every 250 male cancer diagnoses, its incidence has been on the rise in the United States and many other countries for several decades. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2026, there will be about 9,810 new cases of testicular cancer diagnosed and about 630 deaths from the disease. The good news is that the lifetime risk of dying from testicular cancer is very low, about 1 in 5,000, largely because it is so treatable. The 5-year relative survival rate for localized testicular cancer is 99 percent.





One of the most critical messages of Testicular Cancer Awareness Month is the importance of self-examination. Being familiar with your own body is the first line of defense. The most common sign of testicular cancer is a painless lump or swelling in a testicle. Other symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, a dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin, or a change in the size or feel of a testicle. It's important to remember that these symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions, but it's always best to get checked by a doctor. Delaying a visit to the doctor can allow the cancer to spread, making it more difficult to treat.


Performing a monthly self-exam is a simple and effective way to detect any changes early. The best time to do this is during or after a warm shower or bath when the scrotal skin is relaxed. Stand in front of a mirror and check for any swelling on the skin of the scrotum. Check each testicle separately, using both hands to gently roll each testicle between your thumbs and fingers. Feel for any hard lumps, smooth rounded bumps, or any changes in the size, shape, or consistency of the testicles.
You will also feel a soft, cord-like structure on the top and back of each testicle called the epididymis, which is a normal part of the anatomy. It's normal for one testicle to be slightly larger or hang lower than the other.&nbsp;


Embarrassment should never be a barrier to your health. Doctors are professionals who are there to help, and they have these conversations every day. If you notice any changes or have any concerns, schedule an appointment with your doctor.


For those who are diagnosed with testicular cancer, a multidisciplinary team approach is essential. This means having a team of specialists, including urologists, oncologists, and fertility experts, working together to create a comprehensive treatment plan. A crucial part of this plan is addressing concerns about fertility. Treatments like chemotherapy can affect sperm production, so fertility preservation options, such as sperm banking, should be discussed before treatment begins.

The future of testicular cancer treatment is bright, with ongoing clinical trials and biomarker research exploring new approaches for advanced and recurrent disease. There is also a growing awareness of the importance of survivorship and addressing the long-term needs of patients, including fertility, sexual function, and the potential for late side effects of treatment. This Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, take the time to get to know your body, and don't be afraid to speak up if something seems off. Early detection is key to a successful outcome and a long, healthy life. For additional information, visit: <a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/cancer-care" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/cancer-care</a>.

Don't Be Shy: A Frank Conversation About...

While an uncomfortable topic for many men, testicular cancer is a common cancer in American men between the ages of 15 and 35. While a highly...

Don't Be Shy: A Frank Conversation About Testicular Cancer

Recent buzz on social media has raised concerns about a potential link between sparkling water and cancer. But is there any truth to these claims? We break down the latest research and expert advice.
The primary concern isn't the sparkling water itself, but what might be in its packaging. The spotlight is on a group of man-made chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS. Known as "forever chemicals" because they don't easily break down, PFAS can be found in the environment and have been detected in some canned and bottled drinks.&nbsp;Scientific evidence has linked high exposure to certain PFAS to an increased risk of some cancers, like kidney and testicular cancer. From a colorectal health perspective, the worry is that these chemicals could harm the gut.

According to Dr. Steven Lee-Kong, chief of Colorectal Surgery at Hackensack University Medical Center, the concern is how PFAS might interact with the digestive system. "Research suggests that when ingested, PFAS can disrupt the delicate intestinal barrier," he explains. "This can lead to gut inflammation, damage to the intestinal lining, and changes to the gut microbiome." Chronic inflammation is a known risk factor for colorectal cancer.
So, should you ditch your favorite sparkling water? Dr. Lee-Kong advises a measured approach. "My advice is to be a mindful consumer rather than to panic," he says. "The issue is not with sparkling water itself, but with potential contaminants."
Here's what you can do:
<ul><li>Don't Panic: The current science is still evolving, and some studies show that the levels of PFAS in popular sparkling water brands are below federal advisory limits.</li><li>Drink in Moderation: It's difficult for consumers to know the PFAS content of any given product. A sensible approach is to enjoy canned beverages as part of a varied diet.</li><li>Prioritize Filtered Water: Making filtered tap water your main source of hydration is a great strategy. Some water filters, like reverse osmosis or activated carbon systems, are certified to remove PFAS.</li></ul>
Dr. Lee-Kong shares his personal strategy: "My personal approach is to make filtered water my default beverage. I do enjoy sparkling water on occasion, but it is not my daily source of hydration. This approach is based on a principle of minimizing unnecessary exposures where possible while still enjoying things in moderation."
The good news is that regulatory agencies are taking the concern seriously. In 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established the first-ever national drinking water standard for several PFAS. This move highlights a growing awareness of the issue and will lead to reduced public exposure from public water systems.
&ldquo;While the link between all types of cancer and PFAS is not definitively established, the widespread presence of these 'forever chemicals' in our environment is a valid concern,&rdquo; says <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/david-benjamin-greenberg/1319024" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">David Greenberg, M.D., FACP</a>, chief of Hematology / Oncology, Jersey Shore University Medical Center. &ldquo;Research has pointed to a significant association between PFAS exposure and an increased risk for certain malignancies, particularly kidney and testicular cancers. Beyond minimizing direct exposure where possible, it's essential to focus on living a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to help mitigate your overall cancer risk."&nbsp; The bottom line? While research continues, being an informed and mindful consumer is your best bet for long-term health.For information about Hackensack Meridian Health's Cancer Care services, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/cancer-care" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/cancer-care</a>. To make an appointment with Dr. Greenberg, call 844-HMH-WELL.

Sparkling Water a Cancer Risk? Oncologists...

Recent buzz on social media has raised concerns about a potential link between sparkling water and cancer. But is there any truth to these claims?...

Sparkling Water a Cancer Risk? Oncologists Weigh In On the Recent Social Media Buzz

Carly Baldwin

Manasquan-Belmar

Long Branch-Eatontown

Sara Winick

Wall

Little Silver-Oceanport

Red Bank-Shrewsbury

Rumson-Fair Haven

Ocean County

Karen Wall

Point Pleasant

Howell

Brick

Marlboro-Coltsneck

VFW Post 2179 – 460 NJ- 36 Port Monmouth, NJ

The New Jersey Reptile Show is back — now expanded to two full days for an even better experience! Join us on Saturday, May 2nd or Sunday, May 3rd (9AM–4PM both days) for a friendly, educational , and fun-filled reptile &amp; exotic animal expo where families, collectors, and curious newcomers can explore the incredible world of reptiles.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a first-time reptile owner, or a family looking for a unique day out, this is the place to be. This is a sales and experience expo featuring animals and supplies from NJ's top breeders and vendors — while also giving kids and parents the rare chance to see these magnificent creatures up close, not just in books or on TV.
Kids 5 &amp; under get in FREE!
<hr>
<h2>🎟️ Tickets &amp; Capacity</h2>
Online ticket purchase is required.&nbsp;Capacity is strictly limited per day, and this event is expected to sell out.
👉 Purchase tickets at www.NJReptileShow.com to secure your spot.
Limited discounted family bundle tickets available — while they last!
<hr>
<h2>📍 Event Details</h2>
📍 Location: 
VFW Post 2179 
460 NJ-36 S, Port Monmouth, NJ 07758 
(Use this address for Apple Maps, Google Maps, and Waze)
🕘 Dates &amp; Times: 
Saturday, May 2, 2026 (9AM – 4PM) 
Sunday, May 3, 2026 (9AM – 4PM)
🎟️ Admission: (Single Day) 
General Admission (Ages 6+): $20 
Discounted 4-Pack Family Bundle (Save $10 — While Available) 
Kids 5 &amp; Under: FREE
🅿️ Parking: 
Free on-site parking available
🍔 Food &amp; Drinks: 
Available for purchase at the VFW snack bar (Cash &amp; Cards)
<hr>
<h2>🐸 What To Expect</h2>
<h3>✅ A Unique Family Experience</h3>
Get up close to real reptiles and exotic animals in a safe, exciting environment. Perfect for young animal lovers, curious kids, and families looking for something different!
<hr>
<h3>✅ A True Reptile &amp; Exotic Animal Marketplace</h3>
Browse and shop from 70+ vendor tables featuring:
• Captive-bred reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, aquatic fish, invertebrates, and &amp; small exotic mammals 
• Habitats, enclosures, and bioactive supplies 
• Feeder insects, frozen/live rodents, and more 
• Reptile merchandise and discounted equipment
<hr>
<h3>🦎 Animals You’ll See</h3>
Explore a wide variety of species from around the world:
🦎 Geckos 
🐍 Snakes 
🐉 Lizards 
🐸 Amphibians 
🕷️ Invertebrates 
🐟 Rare aquatic fish 
🦔 Small exotic mammals (hedgehogs and more!)🦜Interactive parrot experience by Parties By Parrots (Add-on vendor experience)
<hr>
<h2>🏪 Featured Vendors</h2>
Featuring top breeders, exotic pet shops, and trusted professionals including:
• Major League Exotics 
• Reptile Deli 
• AquaTerra Exotics 
• Classic Jurassic 
• Nautilus Avian &amp; Exotics Veterinary Specialists 
• Garden State Exotics 
• Strong Island Aquatics &amp; Exotics 
• The Critter Carnival 
• EZ Botanicals
(and many more from across New Jersey and beyond)

Local Event: NJ Reptile & Exotic Animal Show Returns May 2–3 (2-Day Event, Limited Tickets)

Port Monmouth

NJ Reptile & Exotic Animal Show Returns May 2–3...

The New Jersey Reptile Show is back — now expanded to two full days for an even better experience! Join us on Saturday, May 2nd...

NJ Reptile & Exotic Animal Show Returns May 2–3 (2-Day Event, Limited Tickets)

Brookdale Performing Arts Center

The Cabaret Café: Broadway Night Step into a night of glitz, glamour, and unforgettable Broadway magic at Brookdale Performing Arts Center! From heart-stopping ballads to show-stopping hits, experience the songs you love performed live around the piano in an intimate, elegant cabaret setting. Sip on some signature drinks, and let the music sweep you away at your cozy cocktail table.&nbsp;
May 2nd at 7 PM — Broadway comes alive at the Cabaret Café!&nbsp;
$25/ticket (plus a small ticket fee) includes assorted non alcoholic drinks. &nbsp;Tickets are limited!&nbsp;
<a href="https://brookdalepac.ludus.com/show_page.php?show_id=200511646" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Purchase tickets here</a>

Local Event: The Cabaret Cafe: Broadway Night

Middletown

The Cabaret Cafe: Broadway Night

The Cabaret Café: Broadway Night  Step into a night of glitz, glamour, and unforgettable Broadway magic at Brookdale Performing...

Brookdale Performing Arts Center is thrilled to launch a bold new comedy experience in 2026: Laugh Lab @Brookdale, an improv series where nothing is scripted, everything is unexpected, and the laughs are absolutely guaranteed. This fresh, experimental comedy night invites audiences into a world where performers push boundaries, test new ideas, and embrace the hilariously unhinged.&nbsp;
Guests will enjoy the show in cocktail-style seating, creating an intimate, club-like atmosphere. Snacks will be available for purchase, and the casual, lounge vibe offers a perfect night out for adults looking to unwind, laugh, and escape the ordinary.&nbsp;
Tickets are just $10, making Laugh Lab @Brookdale one of the most affordable and entertaining nights in Monmouth County. Each performance begins at 7:00 PM, and with a lineup of quick-thinking comedians and unpredictable scenarios, no two nights will ever be the same.&nbsp;
2026 Show Dates&nbsp;
<ul><li>February 19, 2026&nbsp;</li><li>February 20, 2026&nbsp;</li><li>March 12, 2026&nbsp;</li><li>March 13, 2026&nbsp;</li><li>May 7, 2026&nbsp;</li><li>May 8, 2026&nbsp;</li></ul>
All shows begin at 7:00 PM and tickets are $10.&nbsp;
This improv series is adult-themed, geared toward audiences who appreciate edgy, off-the-rails humor. Whether you're an improv lover or someone who just needs a break from the everyday, this is the show you’ll be talking about long after the lights come up.&nbsp;
Don’t miss your chance to be part of something new, daring, and wickedly funny in 2026. Seats are limited, and with this kind of energy, buzz, and price point, Laugh Lab @Brookdale has all the makings of the next must-see local comedy hit.&nbsp;
Laugh Lab @Brookdale Where comedy gets tested, tried, and totally unhinged.
<a href="https://brookdalepac.ludus.com/show_page.php?show_id=200511403" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Purchase tickets here</a>

Local Event: Laugh Lab @Brookdale - May 7 & 8

Laugh Lab @Brookdale - May 7 & 8

Brookdale Performing Arts Center is thrilled to launch a bold new comedy experience in 2026: Laugh Lab @Brookdale, an improv...

RoBeans Mobile Barista is booking for the spring and summer

RoBeans

RoBeans Mobile Barista is a woman-owned coffee bus based in Asbury Park, serving handcrafted espresso drinks, coffee, and tea at community events, corporate gatherings, schools, and private celebrations. Known for its welcoming service and quality beverages. RoBeans brings "serenity in a cup" wherever it parks.

RoBeans Mobile Barista is a woman-owned coffee bus based in Asbury Park, serving handcrafted espresso drinks, coffee, and tea at community events,...

Early Morning & Late Night DEALS! 25% OFF Sale

Scarlet Reserve Room

We are independently owned, family-driven, and deeply rooted in the Monmouth County cannabis community — not backed by multi-state operators or corporate investors. Our mission is to keep cannabis culture alive in New Jersey while providing safe, premium, and compliant cannabis products to local customers. For anyone who believes in second chances and social equity in the New Jersey cannabis market, our journey shows it’s possible — even when the odds feel stacked against you. We’re proud to lead by example and build a trusted Englishtown and Monmouth County dispensary for the next generation of cannabis consumers and entrepreneurs. Our journey proves that redemption and determination can break barriers. Once facing charges for the very plant now fueling an industry, our founder rebuilt from the ground up — earning degrees, mastering business, and creating safe, trusted spaces for cannabis and wellness. Today, Scarlet Reserve Room stands proudly as an independently owned, legacy-to-legal Englishtown dispensary, keeping culture alive and proving second chances matter.

Monmouth

Englishtown

We are independently owned, family-driven, and deeply rooted in the Monmouth County cannabis community — not backed by multi-state operators or...

Be Supported, Be Successful, and Be Brookdale

Brookdale Community College

At Brookdale Community College, academic excellence, student success, affordability, and community impact are more than priorities. They are the foundation of who we are. Every program, partnership, and learning experience is designed to help students Be Supported, Be Successful, and Be Brookdale as they pursue meaningful and rewarding futures. Our commitment to quality is reflected in what our students experience every day: • 81 percent say professors put significant effort into teaching their classes. • 76 percent report it is easy to get the classes they need. • 92 percent feel confident they will find a job in their field after graduation. • A 17 to 1 student-faculty ratio ensures personalized support and mentorship. • Graduates earn a median salary of $50,836 five years out, well above the national average. With more than 60 degree and certificate programs, Brookdale offers flexible in-person, hybrid, and online options to meet students where they are. Our seamless transfer pathways—with Rutgers University, Georgian Court University, Kean University, and Monmouth University—allow students to complete their bachelor’s degrees right here in Monmouth County. We also offer more than 40 transfer agreements with leading four-year colleges and universities from Paris to New Jersey and beyond, guaranteeing qualified students junior-year status. Several agreements even provide three-plus-one pathways so your junior year can be completed at Brookdale for significant savings. Students also benefit from robust career services, workforce partnerships, and hands-on learning that prepare them for in-demand careers in nursing, business, engineering, information technology, criminal justice, cybersecurity, liberal arts, and more. Brookdale’s rigorous programs and dedicated faculty empower students to Be Bold, excel in a rapidly changing world, and graduate with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed.

At Brookdale Community College, academic excellence, student success, affordability, and community impact are more than priorities. They are the...

Now accepting Spring and Annual Storage reservations 

The NJ Paddock Car Storage Facility

An INSURED, Secure, Climate Controlled Antique, Classic and Exotic car storage facility.

Blossom (Divorce) Coaching, LLC

Blossom Coaching: Divorce Support, Recovery &amp; Empowerment Divorce can feel overwhelming, chaotic, and uncertain—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Blossom Coaching, I provide compassionate, expert guidance to help individuals move through the challenges of divorce with clarity, courage, and confidence. As a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Certified Divorce Coach, I bring both professional expertise and personal experience to my work, helping clients untangle the emotional and practical struggles of divorce so they can feel empowered to create their best future. Blossom Coaching offers: In-Person and Virtual Divorce Support &amp; Recovery Groups – Connect with others who truly understand and find strength in community. Individual Coaching – Personalized one-on-one support to meet your unique needs and goals. Workshops – Interactive opportunities to learn strategies, gain tools, and discover your best self after divorce. At Blossom Coaching, you’ll find a safe, supportive space to move forward, rebuild, and blossom into the life that’s waiting for you.

Blossom Coaching: Divorce Support, Recovery & Empowerment Divorce can feel overwhelming, chaotic, and uncertain—but you don’t have to navigate it...

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Asbury Park, NJ|Local Classified|Announcement|Apr 20