The current recommendations in the context of the recent cases of measles in our Tri State area. No known measles cases are in Bergenfield, NJ.
There have been a number of measles cases documented in our area, most notably in Rockland County. Measles is a highly contagious virus. The incubation period ranges from 7-21 days from exposure to onset of symptoms. Symptoms of a measles infection include high fever, cough, congestion, conjunctivitis, and a pronounced rash. Complications of measles are pneumonia, croup, diarrhea, dehydration, and encephalitis.
Thankfully measles infection is very preventable following routine vaccine recommendations. At this time there are no additional recommendations beyond receiving the MMR vaccine at the 12 month check-up and 4 year check-up.
We encourage families to schedule an MMR vaccine visit if:
* a child is over 12 months old and has not yet received one MMR vaccine
* a child is over 4 years old and has not received a second MMR vaccine
The prevention strategy may change if the current number of cases grows and public health officials designate an outbreak.
If someone is concerned about a direct exposure to measles and the child exposed is under 12 months old or under-immunized please call The Bergenfield Health Department at 201-387-4055 ex: 5 to discuss further.
To stress at this time there are currently no additional steps needed if a child is maintaining the recommended vaccine schedule and has already had their 12 month check-up.