LAKEWOOD – In light of the recent measles outbreak in Lakewood, Ocean Health Initiatives, Inc. (OHI) will be hosting a Measles Vaccination Event at the Lakewood Health Center on April 4, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., while supplies last.
No appointment is required. Individuals can come get a measles MMR vaccine at the OHI Mobile Medical Unit any time during the event.
Measles is a highly contagious disease, spread through the air by coughing or sneezing, or by direct contact. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the symptoms of measles appear seven to 14 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes, white spots in the mouth and a rash that spreads downward from your head to your neck, body, arms, legs and feet.
The MMR vaccine can help prevent the disease in children and adults. For children, the CDC recommends two doses, the first during months 12 to 15, and the second during ages 4-6. MMR vaccines may be given as early as 6 months during outbreaks.
If you’re not vaccinated, teenagers and adults can get an MMR vaccine administered at OHI Health Centers by appointment. If you have been exposed or have symptoms of measles, you should mention this when booking an appointment to provide further exposure.
For more information, contact Kyle Fannan, marketing development associate, at 732-719-1570. To schedule an appointment, call 732-363-6655. For more information about OHI’s services, visit ohinj.org.
