Suspected Measles Case In Lacey School Comes Back Negative

LACEY, N.J. — A Forked River Elementary School student suspected of having measles does not have the virus, according to Lacey Superintendent Vanessa P. Clark. The final test results came back negative.

"Now is still a great time for all families, teachers and school administrators to review their vaccine records and get their vaccines up to date," Clark said Wednesday in a note to parents.

Read more: Forked River Elementary Student May Have Measles: Officials

The state has confirmed seven measles cases in Ocean County and four in Monmouth County as of April 5, according to the Department of Health.

Clark announced Monday that a student was suspected of having measles and that the district was working with the Ocean County Health Department to determine whether they would confirm the case.

Clark sent the following information points Monday:

• "Measles is highly contagious. If a case is confirmed in a school the School Nurse will review all staff and student vaccination records and work with public health officials to determine the risk of further spread."

• "Keeping children in school is a priority, but measles is a serious disease. An unvaccinated child who is exposed to measles will not be allowed to go to school during the time period when they could become sick, usually for 21 days after exposure. This may be extended if there are more measles cases."

• "People excluded from school after a measles exposure will be required to stay home to avoid exposing others in the community."

• "Now is a great time for all families, teachers and school administrators to review their vaccine records and get their vaccines up to date."

If you have questions, you can contact contact Principal Eric Fiedler; the school nurse, Mrs. Mattoon at 609-871-2080; or Clark at 609-971-2000, ext. 1002.