TRENTON, NJ – The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) is addressing public health concerns following the confirmation of a measles case earlier this year and the investigation of eight suspected mumps cases in a Hunterdon County family. These cases have been linked to international travel.
NJDOH is collaborating with local health departments to manage these outbreaks and is emphasizing the importance of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination. Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Kaitlan Baston highlighted the significance of vaccination in a public service announcement, urging families to ensure they are up to date with MMR shots.
The recommended schedule for the MMR vaccine includes two doses, with the first dose administered between 12 to 15 months of age, followed by a second dose between 4 to 6 years of age. Teens and adults should verify their vaccination status, especially if planning to travel.
Symptoms of these diseases include high fever, cough, runny nose, watery or red eyes, and characteristic rashes. Mumps symptoms also involve swelling of the salivary glands. Both measles and mumps can lead to serious complications, including neurological issues and infertility. NJDOH advises anyone suspecting they might have contracted these viruses to contact their healthcare provider before visiting a medical facility.