Teen who traveled to NJ may have exposed people to measles

A 16-year-old who traveled to the United States on vacation may have exposed some Bergen County residents to the measles, according to health officials.
The New Jersey Department of Health says that the teen, while infectious with measles, stayed at the Ramada Inn at Rochelle Park located at 375 West Passaic St. and may have exposed guests from May 12 until May 13 at 11 a.m.
The teen was also hospitalized at the Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, and may have exposed people from 9 a.m. on May 13 until 1 a.m. on May 14 and again on May 15 from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. Hospital officials are working on contacting people who may have been exposed.
People who may have come into contact with the disease can develop symptoms as late as June 5, according to officials. Measles is easily spread through the air when someone coughs or sneezes.
Measles is a highly contagious infection and anyone who has not been vaccinated or has not previously had measles is at risk. Measles symptoms include rash, high fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes. It can cause serious complications such as pneumonia and swelling of the brain.
Anyone who thinks that they may have been exposed to measles is asked to contact a medical professional by phone before going to a medical office or hospital. Health officials say that special arrangements can be made that won't put other people at risk.
More information about measles can be found on the New Jersey Department of Health website.
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