Measles Outbreak: Rockland Cases Hit 90

Another case of measles was confirmed in Rockland County Friday. To date, there are 90 confirmed cases with seven more suspected. The health department is continuing to investigation the suspected cases.

The entire county should be considered at risk. Even people previously considered immune — anyone born before 1957 and anyone who has received two doses of measles vaccine — could catch the highly contagious disease.

Health officials kept tightened restrictions on schools in the geographic area where the outbreak is concentrated. All schools in New Square and any school in Spring Valley or Monsey where the immunization rate is lower than 80 percent, must keep un- or under-vaccinated students at home.

The restrictions, which affect 34 schools, will apply until 21 days after the last measles case is confirmed in the county — and officials acknowledge that that could be months away.

The county also wants children to be vaccinated earlier than usual. Instead of waiting till 12 months, any child 6 months or older or any adult who has not received their first MMR vaccine yet should get their first MMR vaccine now.

Measles is not just a rash. Symptoms of measles can also include high fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes.

Measles can be dangerous, especially for babies and young children, as it can lead to pneumonia, brain damage, deafness, and death.

Others who are at high risk for complications if they get the measles include fetuses, pregnant women who are not immune, and those who are immunocompromised or immunosuppressed (when your body can't fight disease).

SEE ALSO:

• Measles Outbreak: 88 Cases In Rockland, 34 In Brooklyn
• Measles Exposure In Rockland County, Newark Airport
• After Recent Measles Scare, Rockland Offers Residents Free Vaccine
• Measles Outbreak: 20 Cases; Unvaccinated Kids Must Stay Home
• Measles Outbreak Worsens; More Restrictions In Rockland

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