A resident of Monmouth County who recently traveled abroad has contracted measles, raising alarm as health officials report potential exposure for others in both Union and Monmouth counties over an eight-day period before the individual sought medical attention at a Jersey Shore hospital last week. The New Jersey Health Department made this announcement on Friday, highlighting various locations visited by the infected person.

Potential Exposure Locations

From September 30 to October 7, the patient visited several spots that could pose a risk to the public:

- **Livoti’s Old World Market**, Freehold: September 30, 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM

- **El Rancho Mexican Restaurant**, Freehold: October 1, 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM

- **Elizabeth Chassis Depot**, Elizabeth: October 1-3, all day

- **Atlantic Health Immediate Care**, Marlboro: October 6, 3 PM - 6 PM

- **Jersey Shore University Medical Center - Emergency Department**, Neptune City: October 7, 10 AM - 5 PM

As of the latest update, no additional cases have been reported; however, the measles virus, highly contagious and spread by simple actions like talking, coughing, or sneezing, poses a serious public health threat.

A Global Concern

This alarming incident is part of a larger, concerning global trend. Despite being declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, measles has seen a frightening resurgence. Coverage for the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine among kindergarteners has fallen below the recommended 95% threshold, particularly in some communities, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The CDC has noted that from January 1 through October 10, 2024, there have been 267 confirmed measles cases reported across 32 states, primarily linked to international travels. Notably, 41% of these infections occurred in children under the age of five. Furthermore, there have been 14 outbreaks in 2024 alone, a significant jump from just four outbreaks in the previous year.

Recognizing Measles Symptoms

Measles symptoms typically develop three to five days after exposure, and the health department warns that signs may last into late October. Common symptoms include:

- High fever

- Cough

- Runny nose

- Watery red eyes

- Red rash beginning at the hairline

Severe cases can lead to complications like pneumonia and encephalitis, particularly threatening pregnant women who may face miscarriages or low birth-weight deliveries.

Vaccination Mandates and Public Health

New Jersey mandates the MMR vaccine for children attending school or daycare, with exceptions only for medical or religious waivers. This outbreak serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of vaccinations and community health measures.

For more comprehensive information on measles and public health updates, residents are advised to consult the New Jersey Health Department website. Stay informed, stay protected, and don’t let complacency put your family's health at risk!

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