The measles outbreak in Ocean County continues to spread: state health department officials say there are now nine confirmed cases of measles — seven in Ocean County and two in Monmouth County. At least three counties have been impacted, officials say.
In an update on the state Department of Health website, officials said they are continuing to track and investigate the outbreak declared March 15. Those confirmed cases and one "highly suspect case" may have exposed others to infection between March 9 and March 14.
Read more: Measles Outbreak In New Jersey: Potential Exposure In 3 Counties
An outbreak in Ocean County that started in late October and stretched to mid-January sickened 33 people. Health department officials have not indicated a connection between the two outbreaks. More than 12,400 doses of vaccine were distributed in response to the October outbreak. Read more: 33 Measles Cases As Ocean County Outbreak Spikes
Anyone who visited the following locations may have been exposed to measles:
The department is working in collaboration with local health officials to identify and notify people who might have been exposed during the time the individuals were infectious. Anyone who visited any of the locations above during specified dates and times should contact a health provider immediately to discuss potential exposure and risk of developing the illness.
If you have been exposed, you are at risk if you have not been vaccinated or have not had measles. Individuals potentially exposed, if infected, could develop symptoms as late as April 21.
Anyone who suspects an exposure is urged to call a health care provider before going to a medical office or emergency department. Special arrangements can be made for evaluation while also protecting other patients and medical staff from possible infection.
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