CLOSE

Get all the facts about measles in less than 90 seconds. Find out how the disease is transmitted, its signs and symptoms and how the vaccine works.

Measles, a highly contagious and potentially life-threatening disease, has been largely preventable since the development of a vaccine more than 50 years ago. (Photo: Getty Images / iStockphoto)

A group will offer Lakewood free measles vaccines on Thursday to contain an outbreak that has caused four cases.

Ocean Health Initiatives Inc. will host a vaccination event at Lakewood Health Center from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm , offering to vaccinate anyone, with the exception of pregnant women who have not been immunized during childhood.

The address is 101 Second Street. No appointments are necessary.

Meanwhile, one of Lakewood's largest health care providers continues to vaccinate residents. without needing an appointment. Meeting times are 10 am to 4 pm Wednesday and Thursday at the CHEMED Health Center, 1771 Madison Ave. People should bring their health insurance card and information regarding their prior vaccination, if available.

The New Jersey Department of Health identified four cases of measles in Ocean County during an outbreak that began in late October, which prompted residents to warn residents to remain vigilant symptoms.

The disease is very contagious and can be transmitted by coughing or sneezing. Symptoms include a rash that appears as red, flat spots; high fever; a cough and a runny nose. This can also lead to complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis, or swelling of the brain. For more information, refer to the video above.

MORE: Ocean County Health Officials Investigate Suspected Case of Measles

]] PLUS: Paid sick leave starts in NJ; Here's how it works

Two doses of measles vaccine are, however, considered 97% effective in preventing the disease, said Dr. Christina Tan, an epidemiologist in post.

The US Centers for Disease Control recommends two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. The first dose is at the age of 12 months to 15 months. The second dose is 4 to 6 years old.

Children may receive the second dose sooner, provided it is at least 28 days after the first dose, said the state's Department of Health.

Adolescents and adults may receive doses. the vaccine if they were not vaccinated in childhood, health officials said. IHO is offering the vaccine Thursday to anyone except pregnant women.

The Department of Health stated that people from Lakewood had contracted the disease after being exposed to a person who had contracted measles while on an international trip.

He was also exposed to other people between October and October. October 13 and 31, if they visited Schul Satmar, 405 Forest Ave .; Eat a Pita, 116 Clifton Ave .; CHEMED Health Center, 1771 Madison Ave .; NPGS grocers, 231 Main Street; and Pizza Plus, 241 4th St. Lakewood.

According to Ocean Initiatives, anyone exposed or presenting symptoms must mention this when making an appointment with their provider in order to take the precautions that are required.

Michael L. Diamond; @mdiamondapp; 732-643-4038; [email protected]

Read or share this story: https://www.app.com/story/news/health/2018/11/07/lakewood-measles-outbreak-free-vaccines-offered Thursday / 1917890002 /