The Township of Hamilton is alerting residents to possible recent exposures two unrelated non-resident measles cases throughout the greater Mercer County area. At this time there are no known cases of measles within the Township.

 “Now is the time to ensure you and your loved ones are up to date on the MMR vaccine, as measles is a highly contagious disease that can have serious health consequences.” Said Chris Hellwig, Hamilton Township Health Officer, “Vaccination remains the most effective tool in preventing the spread of measles. Although no vaccine is 100% effective, it may help take the disease from wild to mild."

Residents, who visited the locations listed below, are encouraged to check their vaccination status and monitor their health. If residents are identified as a contact, the Division will notify those residents. In the event there is a confirmed case in the Township, the Division’s public health nurses will conduct a thorough investigation.

Local Exposure Locations and Dates:

• Starbucks at 2896 South Eagle Road in Newtown, PA on March 19 between 10:50am and 12:30pm
• Capital Health Medical Center Emergency Department - 1 Capital Way, Pennington, NJ on March 22 between 5:15pm through 1:30am (March 23)
• Amtrak Northeast Regional 175 Train Southbound only on March 19 from 7:30pm through 1:30am (March 20)

Individuals who were present at these locations during the specified times may have been exposed to the measles virus. Those who are unvaccinated or unsure of their immunization status should monitor for symptoms and contact a healthcare provider immediately if they develop signs of illness.

What to do if exposed?

Measles can spread very easily between unvaccinated individuals. If you or a loved one is unvaccinated and is sick or exposed to measles it is important to:

• Call your healthcare provider before visiting a healthcare facility. Because measles is airborne and very contagious, special arrangements are needed when you visit a doctor to prevent spreading the virus to others.
• Stay home until they are cleared by their doctor, this includes not attending school, activities, visiting friends/family or going into public spaces.

What is measles and how does it spread?

Measles is a highly contagious and deadly respiratory disease caused by a virus. When someone who is infected coughs, sneezes or talks the virus is released into the air, and enters another person through their nose, mouth or throat.   The measles virus can stay alive in the air for up to 2 hours, even after the infected person has left the area.   People with measles are infectious 4 days before the onset of the rash and 4 days after the rash onset.

90% of unvaccinated people who have close contact with an infected person will get measles.     

Signs and Symptoms of Measles

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• Rash (usually appears 3-5 days after symptoms appear). The rash usually starts as flat red spots on the hairline and face and spreads down to the rest of the body.

 There is no cure for measles, only treatments to manage symptoms (bed rest, fluids and fever reduction). Please note, vitamins do not prevent measles, and giving high doses of vitamins to children can be dangerous. The best way to prevent measles is through vaccination.

Measles can be serious for all ages. Children younger than five and adults over 20 are more likely to suffer from complications from measles, including, ear infections, pneumonia, swelling of the brain and pregnancy and birth complications.

Preventing Measles

Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease, and is given in combination with the vaccines for mumps and rubella (MMR vaccine).

The MMR vaccine is very effective and the best defense there is against preventing measles infection.  The vaccine is typically given as a two dose series at 12 months of age and again between 4-6 years of age.  Older children and adults may also receive the MMR vaccine if they have no evidence of immunity.

Residents who have no or limited health insurance maybe vaccinated at the Division of Health at no charge.

Travel Considerations and Resources

If you will be traveling this season, it is important to know your vaccination status, especially if you will be in an area with confirmed measles cases.   If you are unsure of your vaccination status, please consult your healthcare provider.  Uninsured residents may contact the Division of Health if they are in need of the MMR vaccine (609-890-3884).  

• Travel Health Notices and Considerations: www.cdc.gov/travel
• NJ Department of Health, Information about measles: https://www.nj.gov/health/cd/topics/measles.shtml
• CDC, Information about the MMR vaccine: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/vaccines/

The Township of Hamilton Division of Health is located next to the Municipal Building at 2100 Greenwood Ave. For more information on the Division’s services, please visit www.hamiltonnj.com/health. You may also contact the Division of Health to speak with a Public Health Nurse during normal business hours at 609-890-3884, or afterhours/holidays by contacting the Hamilton Police at 609-581-4000 and request to be connected with the Division of Health.