Search Results for “MEASLES” – Page 4

Measles Outbreak: NYC Hospitals Tightening Admittance Policies at NICUs & Other Sensitive Locations

February 24, 2019 7:45 pm No Comments

Hoping to finally stem the growth of its worst measles outbreak in decades, New York City hospitals are enacting new policies that would require visitors to present proof of immunity in order to gain entry to certain wards. The measles outbreak in New York City began this past fall when a traveler from Jerusalem inadvertently affected people in New Square with the measles. Since that time, the highly contagious disease has spread throughout Jewish communities in the greater New York City area and nearly 100 cases have been reported to the Department of Health since the outbreak began, although the actual number of cases diagnosed is believed to be significantly higher. The latest step in protecting the most vulnerable patients from the measles has been taken by hospitals in the five boroughs and will affect visitors from high risk areas where clusters of measles cases have been reported. Under the new policies, visitors from those locations will need current laboratory documentation proving their immunity to measles in order to be allowed into the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and other wards housing patients with compromised immune systems. Hospital official noted that the regulations are not intended to single out any particular demographic and are being enacted to prevent infections that could result in serious complications and potentially life threatening consequences. Medical experts continue calling on parents to vaccinate their children in order to contain the spread of the disease and New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker said that 13,000 children have been immunized over the last several months. “If you go back many decades ago when we weren’t vaccinating of course there were probably more outbreaks, but in my memory, I don’t know of a measles outbreak that was this significant,” said Zucker. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Fact Sheet On The Measles Outbreak in Orthodox Jewish Communities in Brooklyn

February 21, 2019 6:00 pm 1 Comment

The Health Department announced Thursday that it has identified 17 cases of measles in the last week. The Department has confirmed 90 total cases of measles in Brooklyn since early October. Eight of the 17 newly reported cases were identified after the fact of their illness because they had not sought medical care at the time of their symptoms. The additional 9 cases were diagnosed in February. Two of the newly reported cases are located in Borough Park, and 15 are in Williamsburg. To further protect the community during this outbreak, the Health Department is expanding vaccination recommendations for providers serving the Orthodox Jewish community to include an early, extra dose of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine for children between the ages of 6 months to 11 months who live in Williamsburg and Borough Park. The Health Dept is working with the affected community, schools, and healthcare providers to prevent contact between unvaccinated children and individuals who might have been exposed to measles. [Measles Outbreak: NYC Hospitals Tightening Admittance Policies at NICUs & Other Sensitive Locations] The Health Department mandates that every student in selected zip codes in Borough Park and Williamsburg who are attending child care or yeshivas have the required number of doses of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine in order to attend school. Students cannot return to school until they are appropriately vaccinated, or until the outbreak is declared over, even if they have an approved religious or medical exemption to measles immunization. “Parents who oppose vaccinations for measles and all other illnesses not only put their own children at risk, but endanger other children and families as well,” said Councilman Mark Levine (Chair of the Council Committee on Health). “As Israel and other nations are facing outbreaks, the risk of measles affecting our New York communities is particularly acute in neighborhoods where international travel is common and frequent. I strongly urge all parents across the city to ensure their children are up to date on all American Medical Association (AMA) recommended vaccinations.” “The ongoing measles outbreak in Williamsburg and Borough Park highlights the urgency needed to address this crisis,” said Councilman Stephen Levin (Greenpoint, Williamsburg, Downtown Brooklyn). “Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that requires all of us coming together to stop its spread – just this past week, seventeen new cases have been identified. We need to step up our efforts to keep our communities safe and healthy. I applaud the New York City Department of Health for working with community leaders and expanding its work to prevent contact between unvaccinated children and individuals who might be at risk of exposure.” “I’m grateful to Mayor de Blasio and his team at the Department of Health for their immediate actions to protect our community’s children,” said Councilman Kalman Yeger (Borough Park, Midwood, Bensonhurst). “This is a clear issue of pikuach nefesh. Once again, it is imperative that parents immediately vaccinate their children. It is just as imperative that our parents and yeshivas take all the necessary precautions to keep unvaccinated children away from harm. For this reason, DOH must take this drastic step to require unvaccinated children to be excluded from school until they receive the required vaccinations or the crisis has passed.” “Vaccinating children is one of the most basic ways a parent can protect their child’s health,”

Measles Outbreak in Brooklyn’s Orthodox Jewish Community Hits 62 Cases

January 30, 2019 12:45 pm 1 Comment

A major measles outbreak that first started in October has continued into the new year, with 62 confirmed cases in Brooklyn. The cases all involve members of the Orthodox Jewish community, several of whom acquired the disease while traveling in Israel, health officials said. The city Department of Health announced last week that there were 62 confirmed cases of measles as of Jan. 23, four of which occurred just in the past two weeks. Most cases were found in either Borough Park, which has 36 confirmed cases, or Williamsburg, which has 24. Both those neighborhoods saw two new cases in the last two weeks. “The initial child with measles was unvaccinated and acquired measles on a visit to Israel, where a large outbreak of the disease is occurring,” the Department of Health said. “Since then, there have been additional children from Brooklyn who were unvaccinated and acquired measles while in Israel. Children who did not travel were also infected in Brooklyn or Rockland County.” The disease spread is part of a larger outbreak of measles across the country and in New York, where 124 confirmed cases were recently confirmed in Rockland County. There are also outbreaks in Oregon and Washington state, where a public health emergency was declared. Bensonhurst and Midwood/Marine Park also each had one confirmed measles case, health officials said, though both neighborhoods haven’t seen any new cases since November. When the cases first started popping up in October and November, city health officials sent notifications to schools, providers and hospitals with large Orthodox Jewish populations to raise awareness about vaccinations. “If you plan to travel to Israel, protect yourself and your family against measles and get vaccinated with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine at least two weeks in advance of your trip,” the department wrote in the most recent announcement. Those who have traveled to Israel and notice they have a fever, cough, red eyes, runny nose and body rash should contact their doctor, officials said. They should also call the doctor before going into the office to avoid spreading the disease. (Source: Patch)

Officials Scramble to Contain Measles Outbreak Near Portland, Oregon That Has Sickened 35

January 28, 2019 10:00 pm No Comments

Public health officials scrambling to contain a measles outbreak in the U.S. Northwest warned people to vaccinate their children Monday and worried that it could take months to contain the highly contagious viral illness due to a lower-than-normal vaccination rate at the epicenter of the crisis. The outbreak near Portland has sickened 35 people in Oregon and Washington since Jan. 1, with 11 more cases suspected. Most of the patients are children under 10, and one child has been hospitalized. Health officials say the outbreak is a textbook example of why it’s critical to vaccinate against measles, which was eradicated in the U.S. after the vaccine was introduced in 1963. In recent years, however, the viral illness has popped up again from New York to California and sickened hundreds. Clark County, Washington, has a vaccination rate of 78 percent, well below the level necessary to protect those with compromised immune systems or who can’t get vaccinated because of medical issues or because they are too young. Misinformation is circulating on social media, said Dr. Alan Melnick, Clark County public health director. “What keeps me up at night is eventually having a child die from this completely preventable situation,” he said. “It’s still out there, even though it’s been debunked, that the measles vaccine results in autism. That’s nonsense.” Before mass vaccination, 400 to 500 people in the United States died of the measles every year, 50,000 people were hospitalized and 4,000 people developed brain swelling that can cause deafness, Melnick said. One to three cases out of every 1,000 are fatal, he said. People may have been exposed to the disease at about four dozen locations, including Portland International Airport and a Portland Trail Blazers game, officials said. They announced Monday that others could have been infected at the popular Oregon Museum of Science & Industry in Portland and a Wal-Mart Supercenter in the bedroom community of Vancouver, Washington. Thirty-one of the confirmed patients had not been vaccinated against measles. The vaccination status of four others who were infected is unknown. The vaccine has been part of routine childhood shots for decades, and measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000. But measles is still a big problem in other parts of the world, and travelers infected abroad can bring the virus back and spread it, causing periodic outbreaks. Last year, there were 17 outbreaks and about 350 cases of measles in the U.S. Officials still are not sure where the Northwest outbreak began. The first known patient sought medical care on Dec. 31, but it isn’t known if other people may have gotten sick before that and did not seek treatment. Children receive the first vaccine between 12 and 15 months old and the second vaccine between ages 4 and 6. One vaccine provides 93 percent immunity from measles, and two shots provide 97 percent protection. But the vaccine is less effective in those under a year old and is generally not given to infants. Jocelyn Smith is terrified her youngest son, who is 11 months, will get measles. They live in Camas, Washington, where at least one infected person spent time while contagious. Smith has an appointment to get her son vaccinated as soon as he’s eligible — the day after he turns 1. “I haven’t taken

Measles Alerts Pertaining To Buses Servicing In Modi’in Illit, Bnei Brak And Jerusalem

January 28, 2019 6:30 pm No Comments

Israel’s Health Minister on Monday, January 28, 2019, issued alerts for passengers who traveled on buses servicing cities which have major chareidi population centers. The ministry alert states, “we would like to inform persons who were born from 1957 and after and have not been immunized against measles, both doses, to report to a ministry office near their home as soon as possible to get vaccinated”. The persons exposed to a rider with measles were on board the following buses at the times indicated. The alert pertains to: • January 23, 24, 2019, on the 293 line from Zacks Square in Jerusalem at 7:15AM to Betar Illit and from Betar Illit to Jerusalem at 1:45PM. • January 25, 2019, on the 402 line leaving Bar Ilan Street in Jerusalem at 8:25AM to Bnei Brak. • January 25, 2019 on the 209 line leaving Hashomer Street in Bnei Brak at 11:20AM to Modi’in Illit. • January 26, 2019 on the 340 line leading from Ponevezh in Modi’in Illit at 8:30PM to Yerushalayim. It is pointed out that since the outbreak of measles in Israel a year ago, primarily in chareidi areas, there have been 3000 cases documented by health officials. Over 30,000 Israelis have since been vaccinated, and in two extreme cases, the outcome was fatal, a toddler from Meah Shearim who was not vaccinated and an 82-year-old woman with underlying medical issues. (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)

Health Officials Says Measles Outbreak In New Jersey IS OVER

January 17, 2019 7:45 am 2 Comments

Ocean County’s measles outbreak is considered to be over. The number of cases remained at 33 since since Nov. 30 with no new confirmations for two incubation periods, or 42 days, according to Dan Regyne, the public health coordinator for the Ocean County Health Department. One remaining case tested negative Tuesday, the last day of the incubation period. Thirty Ocean County residents were affected and three were reported in a single family in Passaic County, though those cases were connected to the exposures in Ocean County. Places of possible exposure included doctor’s offices, restaurants and other businesses, mostly in Lakewood. “We urge providers to maintain vigilance for suspect cases of measles and have a high index of suspicion for measles in persons with a clinically compatible illness as there might be undiagnosed or unreported cases within the community,” Regyne said. Regenye said that those who believe they have may have been exposed to call their medical provider to arrange for an exam, and to not just show up at their office to minimize the chance of exposing others. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

IRRESPONSIBLE: Man With Measles Endangers Dozens of Babies at Mayanei HaYeshua Hospital

January 7, 2019 2:15 pm 4 Comments

Acting totally irresponsibly, a father with measles visited the preemie ward at Bnei Brak’s Mayanei HaYeshua Hospital on Thursday, January 3, 2019, entering without informing any hospital personnel he has been diagnosed with measles. When it was learned the father was ill, staff members were quick to vaccinate over 80 babies, some only a day or two old. According to the Yisrael Hayom newspaper report filed by Ron Reznik and Meital Yasur Beit-Ohr, the hospital decided to vaccinate all of the 24 preemies in the unit along with 60 babies in the adjacent unit. It is explained that since children are usually vaccinated after a year, in this case, due to the circumstances, they were given the regular vaccination and not a prophylactic treatment. Professor Moti Ravid, director of the hospital, is quoted telling the newspaper, “This is a wild and inconsiderate act, not to mention that the same man endangered his son, along with placing other babies at risk. A guard is posted and so far, we have concentrated mainly on preventing the entry of visiting children. From now on, we will also guard the entry of adults, and we also hung signs around the hospital asking visitors with fever or a rash not to enter the hospital.” Ravid adds, “Someone who does not feel good should not visit a hospital, or shul and yeshiva for that matter”. According to Health Ministry data, up until last week, 3,030 cases of measles have been diagnosed in Israel including 502 new cases which were diagnosed in December 2018. (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)

MEASLES ALERT: Confirmed Cases at Newark Airport & Jewish Community in Las Vegas

December 30, 2018 11:45 pm 3 Comments

An individual who flew into Newark Liberty International Airport last week has a confirmed case of the measles, the New Jersey Department of Health revealed in a news release on Friday, warning that others could have been exposed. The traveler with the “highly contagious disease” flew into the airport’s Terminal B on Dec. 24 from Brussels. The infected person was contagious at the time and possibly went to other parts of the travel hub. Officials cautioned that any person at the airport on that day between the hours of 12 and 4 p.m. could’ve been exposed to the disease. If they were infected, symptoms could present themselves through Jan. 14, the news release said. “New Jersey residents identified as potentially exposed on the ill individual’s flights will be notified by their local health department,” health officials said. This instance has no connection to an outbreak of the disease elsewhere in the state; there were at least 33 confirmed cases in Ocean County (Lakewood) and Passaic County. Health Commissioner Dr. Shereef Elnahal urged people to receive vaccinations. If you were in @EWRairport on Christmas Eve between noon – 4 p.m., you may have been exposed to an international traveler with #measles who arrived from Brussels. This case is unrelated to the ongoing Ocean County measles outbreak.#VACCINATE! https://t.co/hw9Kcf02EN pic.twitter.com/7LuqrFWTKe — NJDOH (@NJDeptofHealth) December 28, 2018 Elsewhere, the Southern Nevada Health District has confirmed an internationally imported case of measles in Southern Nevada. Appropriate testing confirmed the case on Monday, Dec. 24. This is the first confirmed case of measles in Clark County since 2015. Rabbi Yitz Wyne, from Young Israel Aish of Las Vegas, told 13 Action News that the patient is a woman who had been vaccinated years ago. He says the woman got measles while visiting a family overseas. “There was a 14-year-old, who had the measles … and … they were of the family philosophy not to vaccinate,” said Rabbi Wyne. The Health District is notifying individuals who might have had contact with this patient. Rabbi Wyne has also warned his congregation. “We actually sent out an email to everyone who was at the event that the person was also in attendance,” said Rabbi Wyne. The Health District is advising people who visited the following locations between Dec. 10 and Dec. 18 to review their immunization status and contact their health care providers if they are not fully immunized against measles and have not already had the disease. In addition, they should contact their health care providers if they develop any symptoms consistent with measles within 21 days after their visit to these locations. It is recommended that anyone with symptoms contact a health care provider’s office before entering a health care facility to allow the facility to make appropriate arrangements to ensure the illness is not spread. Young Israel Aish Las Vegas, 9590 West Sahara Avenue, Las Vegas 89117 Monday, Dec. 10 and Thursday, Dec. 13 or any synagogue-related activities during these dates. Trader Joe’s, 2315 Summa Dr., Ste. 100 Las Vegas 89135 Thursday, Dec. 13 between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Albertsons, 2550 S. Fort Apache Rd., Las Vegas 89117 Thursday, Dec. 13 between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. Costco, 801 S. Pavilion Center Dr., Las Vegas 89144 Thursday, Dec. 13 between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Smart &

Measles Exposure On Bus Traveling from Tzefas to Bnei Brak

December 27, 2018 8:30 pm No Comments

The Israeli Health Ministry issued a warning to all passengers on bus 981 that traveled from Tzefas to Bnei Brak on December 25th at 4:30 P.M. that they may have been exposed to the measles. According to the warning issued, one of the passengers has been diagnosed with measles and therefore may have infected others who traveled on that bus. The Ministry asked any passenger born after 1957 who has not yet received two doses of the vaccine against measles, to contact the health ministry office closest to their homes in order to determine whether or not they have contracted the disease and to determine how they should proceed. The disease has reached outbreak proportions throughout Israel and especially in the Charedi community where there are many people who refuse services from the state, including vaccinations and healthcare. (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)

WEDDING POSTPONED: Chosson To Get Married in Williamsburg Tonight Has Signs of Measles

December 26, 2018 5:45 pm 28 Comments

A wedding scheduled to take place tonight has been postponed due to measles. But in this case, it is the Chosson himself that possibly has the disease. Sources tell YWN that the Chosson is from Antwerp, and showed signs of having measles when he landed in New York. The wedding was scheduled to take place in the Vayoel Moshe Hall on Bedford Avenue in the WIlliamsburg section of Brooklyn. YWN was unable to confirm a date when the wedding would be held. The NYC Health Department tells YWN that there are 52 confirmed cases of measles in Brooklyn. Three infections, including the initial case of measles, were acquired by children on a visit to Israel, where a large outbreak of the disease is occurring. There has been transmission in schools with children who are unvaccinated or who have not received two doses of the vaccine. Every student grades pre K through 12th grade attending a yeshiva in Borough Park and Williamsburg (zip codes: 11204, 11205, 11206, 11211, 11218, 11219, 11220, 11230, 11249) who is not vaccinated with the required number of doses of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine will not be permitted to attend school. There are no deaths associated with these cases, although there have been complications including hospitalizations. (Yossi Taub – YWN)

Measles Alert in the Beit Knesset HaGadol in Bnei Brak and Moshav Yavniel

December 26, 2018 2:20 pm 1 Comment

Hundreds of mispallalim, including women and children, who were present during shachris in the Beit Knesset HaGadol in Bnei Brak this past Shabbos are urged to be checked for measles as one of the mispallalim was infected. According to the report filed by Ohr Ravid in Walla, the ill person was in the shul this past Shabbos between 12:00 and 12:30PM. Anyone in the shul during that time period is urged to be checked, with the Health Ministry adding, anyone who develops a fever and/or rash in the coming days, and was present in the shul, should report to his physician immediately. Walla News adds that two children, ages four and 34 months, in Moshav Yavniel, are infected. Their father brought them to the area Clalit Kupat Cholim clinic in the Tiveria area. Anyone who was in the area of those children is also urged to have themselves checked. (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)

MEASLES OUTBREAK: Lakewood Jumps to 33 Confirmed Cases

December 21, 2018 4:00 pm 5 Comments

The Ocean County Health Department confirms to YWN that there are now 33 confirmed cases of measles. • The measles outbreak continues until at least 42 days after the last known infection. The last rash onset date is November 30, 2018 and 4 days of infection ended on December 4, 2018. Therefore, at present, at least 42 days must elapse from the date of December 4, 2018 prior to consideration of an end to the measles outbreak. • Vaccination is encouraged and those children involved with exposure to a confirmed case may be subject to an order of exclusion, if unvaccinated. • The Ocean County Health Department continues to support and highly encourage the exclusion of non-vaccinated children from schools, preschools and daycares in the outbreak area. These entities have the authority to make that decision when an outbreak has been declared by the New Jersey Department of Health. The age range so far for the current outbreak is 6 months to 59 years old. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Measles Fatality Reported In Israel, An 82-Year-Old Woman

December 20, 2018 4:15 pm 2 Comments

Israel’s Ministry of Health reported on Thursday, that there has been another fatality connected to the measles, an 82-year-old woman who was diagnosed with the measles, who according to the ministry, “had serious underlying medical issues” died on Wednesday,11 Teves in Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital. According to the ministry, as of Wednesday, there have been 2690 persons diagnosed with measles in Israel with the highest number being in October, 948 cases, followed by November with 893, and December, with 194. Ministry officials explain that despite the decline in the number of cases, persons who have yet to do so are urged to get vaccinated. (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)

Monsey: 9 Yeshivas Fined $70,000 For Not Providing Measles Vaccination Records

December 19, 2018 9:40 pm 11 Comments

The Rockland County Board of Health fined nine yeshivas in Rockland County that did not comply with mandates to prevent the further spread of the measles. All nine schools are now in compliance with the Health Commissioner’s order. The Board of Health met in Pomona today to deal with the outbreak, which has continued for 12 weeks with 95 cases reported in which more than half are children. Rockland County’s health commissioner ordered schools in the epicenter of the measles outbreak to report their vaccination rates and attendance weekly. It’s a measure put in place for schools with low vaccination rates and experiencing cases. While two thirds of schools in the county complied with the mandate, nine yeshivas did not. The fine for noncompliance is $2,000 a day, and some did not comply for two weeks. Eight of the schools signing stipulations before today’s hearings and were given reduced fines, equal to 10% of their original fine. The ninth school, Ateres Bnos, did not agree to the stipulations and was fined as listed below during today’s Board of Health hearing. Here are the yeshivas and the civil penalties: Yeshiva Ohr Torah (Monsey) – $6,950 Bais Chana Malka (Spring Valley) – $5,950 The Skill Building Center (Spring Valley) – $5,750 Yeshiva Tzoin Yosef Pupa (Boys – Spring Valley) – $6,950 Yeshiva Tzoin Yosef Pupa (Girls – Spring Valley) – $6,950 Ateres Bnos (two locations – Spring Valley and New Square) – $24,750 Avir Yakov (Boys and girls Spring Valley and New City) – $5,950 Bnei Yakov Yosef (Spring Valley and New City) – $6,950 “During a public health crisis, we expect everyone to comply with the Health Commissioner’s orders,” said County Executive Ed Day. “These regulations are designed to protect public health for the entire community and while the majority of schools have complied we will not allow anyone to put children’s lives at risk. We will grant no quarter in protection of the health of this County.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Kfar Chabad Farbrengen Measles Alert

December 18, 2018 11:28 pm 1 Comment

A person who is ill with the measles, participated in a farbrengen in Kfar Chabad last Wednesday, and now, the Ministry of Health reports that persons who are not vaccinated against measles who were in contact with him should report to a ministry office. The ministry calls on everyone who was present at the “Didan Netzach event” in Kfar Chabad Bet last Wednesday and is not vaccinated, should be checked – as someone who has measles was in attendance. They are instructed to report to a ministry office without delay to get vaccinated. In addition, the ministry warns anyone developing a fever or rash in the coming weeks should immediately visit his doctor and inform the doctor he was in contact with someone with measles weeks earlier. Since the ongoing outbreak of measles began in Israel last March, over 2,500 people have been diagnosed with the illness. The peak of the outbreak was in October and November. In the past month, there has been a downward trend in the number of people with the illness. (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)

Measles Alert Regarding a Flight from Istanbul And Two Bnei Brak Busses

December 16, 2018 5:30 pm No Comments

Israel’s Ministry of Health is alerting the public about recent exposure to measles patients. The first alert involves a Turkish Airlines flight number TK0786 from Istanbul to Ben-Gurion Airport. The flight took off from Istanbul on December 11, 2018 at 1:15PM and landed at 2:40PM in Israel. Additionally, a second alert was issued about a measles patient that traveled on buses in Israel on December 13, 2018. The following public transport passengers from Rehovot and Bnei Brak were exposed to measles: 1. Bus 319, a bus that left Rehovot to Bnei Brak at 7:00PM. 2. Bus line 979, which left Bnei Brak for Tzefas at 9:00PM. The ministry stated that passengers on that flight and on those buses born after 1957 and are not vaccinated with two doses against measles should contact the nearest health office to determine the need for a measles vaccination. (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)

Rockland County (Monsey) Now Has 91 Cases Of Measles; Orange County (Kiryas Joel) Has 5

December 13, 2018 8:30 am 3 Comments

As of Monday, Dec. 10, There are 91 confirmed cases of measles in Rockland County as well as eight suspected cases that the Department of Health is continuing to investigate. Rockland County held its 12th measles vaccination clinic in Rockland County Tuesday in an effort to stop the spread of the highly contagious disease. The clinic was held at Palisades Center Mall. The Best Buy in the Palisades Mall is one of the locations where the county has warned some may have been exposed to the disease on Nov. 24. Rockland officials say the cases are in clusters in New Square, Spring Valley and Monsey. Meanwhile, there are now five confirmed cases of measles in Orange County, according to health officials. They say that all of the patients are children. Two of them attended a Yeshiva. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

UNVACCINATED 16-Month-Old From Afula In Serious Condition With Measles; NOW HAS MENINGITIS

December 12, 2018 9:15 pm 11 Comments

A 16-month-old toddler from Afula is hospitalized in Emek Medical Center in Afula in serious condition. She has the measles, and now contracted additional illnesses, one of which can cause irreversible brain damage. Doctors told the media that the young female toddler is now also suffering from meningitis and pneumonia that she got as a result of complications caused by the measles. Meningitis is rare, but is a complication from measles that affects one out of 1,000. Additionally, some of her unvaccinated siblings have also contracted measles. The family reportedly travelled to Jerusalem, where health officials believe they contracted the disease from their unvaccinated relatives. Last month an 18-month-old toddler in Jerusalem died of the disease, the first recorded death from measles in Israel in over a year. (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)

LISTEN TO THE AUDIO: Verizon Refusing To Dispatch Techs To Boro Park DUE TO MEASLES OUTBREAK

December 10, 2018 1:30 pm 14 Comments

Verizon will not be servicing customers in Boro Park, due to the measles outbreak. According to exclusive audio obtained by YWN, a phone provider in Boro Park spoke with Verizon on Monday morning about why they are cancelling requests for tech support. Verizon is heard telling the customer that they will be crediting their account for all the time that a technical person will be unable to be dispatched due to the measles outbreak. “You have no information when you will be sending techs to Boro Park?”, Verizon was asked. “Not that I am aware of”, the Verizon rep responded. “The only thing I can do is to reach out to the dispatch center and see if they have a date or know of any information when it may get cleared up”. YWN notes that the location that a tech person is needed is not a school, but an office in Boro Park. YWN mentions the school aspect, because last week, the NYC Health Department banned all unvaccinated children from Yeshiva in Boro Park, Williamsburg and parts of Flatbush. Click here to read what zip codes this ban has been placed on. Just a few days ago, YWN spoke with Dr. Jane R. Zucker, the Assistant Commissioner for the Bureau of Immunization at the NYC Department of Health who said that there are now 39 confirmed cases. All of the cases are in Brooklyn – 15 of them are in Williamsburg, 21 are in Boro Park, 1 in Bensonhurst, 1 in Marine Park. “Besides for five cases being adults, the rest are all children under the age of five, Dr Zucker told YWN”. “The vast majority of these cases were unvaccinated, and many of these children could have been vaccinated and this outbreak could have been prevented”. Dr. Zucker told YWN that they suspect there are many additional cases that have not been properly reported. (Yossi Taub – YWN)

Measles CONFIRMED IN CHICAGO; Lakewood Health Officials Warn That EIGHTY SIX Possibly Exposed

December 7, 2018 2:35 pm 3 Comments

There is a now a one case of measles in Chicago. YWN has confirmed that a young child was confirmed to have the disease on Thursday, December 6. The child visited Lakewood NJ on November 20, and returned to Chicago on November 26. Additionally, the child was vaccinated with MMR on November 19 – just one day prior to out of state travel to New Jersey. Meanwhile the Ocean County Health Department (Lakewood) tells YWN that Eighty-six residents recently attended an invitation only event where measles exposure may have occurred. The Ocean County Health Department is endeavoring to contact all of the potentially exposed persons and others in its continued investigation and efforts in support of containing the measles outbreak. While Ocean County’s confirmed measles cases remain at 18, with 6 remaining under investigation, Ocean County Health Department Public Health Coordinator Daniel E. Regenye, cautions that the measles outbreak is likely far from being over. On Thursday, the NYC Health Department banned all unvaccinated children from Yeshiva in Boro Park, Williamsburg and parts of Flatbush. Click here to read what zip codes this ban has been placed on. Chicago Rabbonim has been proactive in the past weeks and have been warning the community of the halachic obligations to vaccinate. Those warnings were published extensively on YWN. The following letter was released on November 13, and signed by HaRav Shmuel Fuerst, the Dayan of Agudath Yisroel of Illinois, and HaRav Yona Reiss, Ava Beth Din of the Chicago Rabbinical Council. YWN has previously published an audio recording of HaRav Fuerst of Chicago regarding the vaccinations. Rav Fuerst joined the growing list of Poskim releasing Piskei Halacha directed towards the anti-vaxxers, following the measles outbreak which has spread across many Chareidi communities. Rav Fuerst says he did alot of research into the issue (of vaccinations), and released the following message (audio below, transcribed by YWN): “Every child must have vaccination shots. And a school should not take in any kids that were not vaccinated because of the Issur of ‘Lo Saamod Al Dam Reacha’ – because another child can catch this sickness. It can be measles, mumps, polio or any of these types of illnesses which are almost completely unheard of, and now we are hearing of them because people are not getting vaccinations. “If you have a playgroup, you must make sure that all the children are vaccinated. If there is a child who is not vaccinated, you (the playgroup owner) must notify all the other parents, because you are putting them all in jeopardy”. Rav Fuerst says this applies to children simply going to play at another child’s home. If they are unvaccinated, the other family must be notified. Last week, YWN published an extensive Psak Halacha written by one of the leading Poskim in the world, Hagaon HaRav Moshe Shternbuch to the Rosh Yeshiva of BMG, HaRav Malkiel Kotler. In the letter translated for YWN, Rav Shternbuch explains why it is a Halachic obligation to vaccinate. Additionally, the issue of vaccinations was brought up at the Agudah Convention at a panel with HaRav Elya Brudny and Harav Yosef Elefant. The video below is from that session. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

MEASLES OUTBREAK GROWS: More Cases in Williamsburg, Boro Park, Monsey & Lakewood

December 1, 2018 10:35 pm 16 Comments

The NYC Health Department tells YWN that the number of confirmed cases of measles continues to spike. YWN spoke with Dr. Jane R. Zucker, the Assistant Commissioner for the Bureau of Immunization at the NYC Department of Health on Thursday night, and she says that there are now 34 confirmed cases. All of the cases are in Brooklyn – 13 of them are in Williamsburg, 20 are in Boro Park and 1 in Bensonhurst. Health Department officials are concerned that there is an increase in (disease) transmission in the Boro Park neighborhood of Brooklyn. “Most of our patients are really very young”, Zucker said. “Besides for two cases being adults, the rest are all children under the age of five”. “The vast majority of these cases were unvaccinated, and many of these children could have been vaccinated and this outbreak could have been prevented”. Dr. Zucker told YWN that they suspect there are many additional cases that have not been properly reported. Meanwhile, Rockland County Health Commissioner Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert told YWN that s of November 28, there are 83 confirmed reported cases of measles in the county. The measles outbreak in Rockland is not limited to one community however it is affecting residents of Spring Valley, New Square, and Monsey. Due to Rockland County’s small geographic size, exposure to the measles may occur ANYWHERE in Rockland. People may shop, dine, and run errands around the county before they realize they are ill, but are contagious. In addition, anyone who visited the following locations in Spring Valley and West Nyack may have been exposed to measles: Compare Supermarket on 11/22/2018 between 7 pm – 9:30 pm 210 N. Main Street, Spring Valley, NY 10977 Jalapa Express on 11/24/2018 between 5:30 pm – 7:45 pm 10 S. Main Street, Spring Valley, NY Best Buy in Palisades Mall (entered and exited through outside entrance and did NOT enter the Mall itself) on 11/24/2018 between 7 pm – 9:30 pm 1240 Palisades Center Drive, W. Nyack, NY 10994 In Lakewood, the Ocean County Health Department tell YWN that: • There are now 18 confirmed measles cases. • There are also 6 potential cases under investigation. • The measles outbreak is presently defined by a rash onset date of October 17, 2018 through November 24, 2018. • Vaccination is encouraged and those children involved with exposure to a confirmed case may be subject to an order of exclusion, if unvaccinated. • The Ocean County Health Department continues to support and highly encourage the exclusion of non-vaccinated children from schools, preschools and daycares in the outbreak area. These entities have the authority to make that decision when an outbreak has been declared by the New Jersey Department of Health. The age range so far for the current outbreak is 6 months to 59 years old. In the City of Passaic, there are three confirmed cases in one household. The household in Passaic County has a direct epidemiological link to the outbreak in Ocean County (Lakewood), where 18 cases have been confirmed. Individuals infected with the virus range in age from 6 months to 59 years, according to the NJ State Department of Health. On Wednesday the girls division of the Yeshiva Ktana of Passaic was closed after a “member” of the school’s community was diagnosed

NON-VACCINATED Child From Emanuel With Measles in Serious Condition; May Have Permanent Brain Damage R”L

November 29, 2018 12:30 pm 21 Comments

A 10-year-old boy, a resident of the Shomron Chareidi community of Emanuel, has been admitted to Schneider Children’s Hospital in Petach Tikvah, listed in very serious condition as a result of contracting measles. Doctors report the measles led to a very serious brain infection. The child was never vaccinated and has been placed in isolation in the hospital. It appears he caught the illness from friends in his class, and they are now being checked by doctors to determine if they too have the illness. Chief of Infectious Diseases at Schneider, Prof. Itzik Levi, told Ynet that the child has a most serious infection involving his brain, and the prognosis is that he will not make a total recovery due to the extent of the current infection, and is likely to be left with neurological impairment R”L. Dr. Levi is quoted saying, “We see the destructive consequences of not being vaccinated, and I call upon everyone to have their children vaccinated.” YWN previously reported on a 3-week-old baby in Bnei Brak hospitalized with the measles, caught from his mother who was unvaccinated. Earlier this month, an 18-month-old girl was R”L killed by the measles in Meah Shearim. [WEDNESDAY MEASLES UPDATE: More Cases In Lakewood; NYC Hatzolah Requires Members Be Vaccinated] On Tuesday morning, YWN published an extensive Psak Halacha written by one of the leading Poskim in the world, Hagaon HaRav Moshe Shternbuch to the Rosh Yeshiva of BMG, HaRav Malkiel Kotler. In the letter translated for YWN, Rav Shternbuch explains why it is a Halachic obligation to vaccinate. Additionally, the issue of vaccinations was brought up at the Agudah Convention at a panel with HaRav Elya Brudny and Harav Yosef Elefant. The video below is from that session. (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)

WEDNESDAY MEASLES UPDATE: More Cases In Lakewood; NYC Hatzolah Requires Members Be Vaccinated

November 28, 2018 10:15 pm 2 Comments

The Ocean County Health Department tells YWN that the number of measles in Lakewood has risen. There are now 18 confirmed measles cases. There are also 16 potential cases under investigation. The OCHD reminds residents that vaccination is encouraged and those children involved with exposure to a confirmed case may be subject to an order of exclusion, if unvaccinated. The Ocean County Health Department continues to support and highly encourage the exclusion of non-vaccinated children from schools, preschools and daycares in the outbreak area. These entities have the authority to make that decision when an outbreak has been declared by the New Jersey Department of Health. The age range so far for the current outbreak is 6 months to 27 years old. Meanwhile, Central Hatzolah (covering all 5 Boros of NYC) sent out a letter to all their members informing them that they are required to show proof that they have been vaccinated. The letter in part reads: In light of the recent Measles outbreak in several areas of New York City, the Executive Board, in consultation with the Department of Health and several Infectious Disease specialists, has made a determination regarding immunization requirements for all Hatzalah members. In order to protect our members, their families, and the community that we serve, every member will be required to provide proof of immunity for the following diseases: · Measles · Mumps · Rubella · Varicella · Hepatitis B You must provide either the results of a blood test (called titers) which shows immunity to the above diseases, or proof of recent immunization. On Tuesday morning, YWN published an extensive Psak Halacha written by one of the leading Poskim in the world, Hagaon HaRav Moshe Shternbuch to the Rosh Yeshiva of BMG, HaRav Malkiel Kotler. In the letter translated for YWN, Rav Shternbuch explains why it is a Halachic obligation to vaccinate. Additionally, the issue of vaccinations was brought up at the Agudah Convention at a panel with HaRav Elya Brudny and Harav Yosef Elefant. The video below is from that session. Statement from Touro Medical Schools on Measles Outbreak As leaders of medical schools operated under Jewish auspices, we feel it is essential to make our views known concerning a recent public health issue. Opponents of vaccinations have swayed parents in some Jewish communities to refuse immunizations for their children. This has resulted in two of the largest measles outbreaks in New York’s recent history. The opposition to vaccines is not confined to the Jewish community but represents part of an ill-informed nationwide movement opposed to vaccines. As of last week, there were 24 confirmed cases of measles in the Brooklyn neighborhoods of Williamsburg and Boro Park and an additional 75 people in Rockland County had contracted measles as well. Additional cases are currently under investigation, and the number is expected to continue rising. Childhood vaccines preserve health, prevent disease and save lives. Proper vaccination is an essential public health strategy and parents must be made aware of the scientific research on this critical issue. Members of our faculty have previously reported, in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM 2012 367:1704-1713), the ability of the childhood viral disease mumps to spread rapidly among children in the close quarters of yeshiva study halls or Beit Midrash. Similarly, measles seems to thrive in these

MEASLES UPDATE: Bais Yaakov of Passaic To Be Closed Wednesday, Per Health Dept

November 27, 2018 8:35 pm 10 Comments

There is one confirmed case of measles in Passaic, and the Bais Yaakov of Passaic has been ordered closed for one day by the Passaic Board of Health. The following letter was sent to the parents body on Tuesday evening: Dear Parents, All students of Yeshiva Ktana of Passaic, Bais Yaakov and Preschool have met the requirements of immunization. However, there is one case of measles in the Girls Building. The Passaic Board of Health has mandated that all staff members must show proof of immunity to measles. Therefore, we are forced to close school tomorrow, November 28, 2018, for the Preschool, Bnos Bracha Elementary and Bais Yaakov High School (Boys Division will be open). Tomorrow, all staff will be screened. Further information regarding school on Thursday, will be forthcoming. Please note that the 8th grade girl’s trip will take place as scheduled. All chaperones have been cleared for measles. BYP Informational Evening is canceled for this evening. The new date will be announced. Sorry for any inconvenience but it is beyond our control. YWN posted on Motzei Shabbos that the New Jersey Department of Health is warning residents in Passaic County. This Passaic County resident could have exposed others to the infection while in Passaic County between November 17 and November 18. Anyone who visited the following locations may have been exposed to the measles: Passaic Chill Youth Drop In Center, 217 Brook Ave., Passaic, NJ on November 17 between 8:30 p.m. and midnight Junior’s Kosher Deli, 215 Main Ave., Passaic, NJ 07055 on November 18 between 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. Rite Aid, 78 Main Ave., Passaic, NJ 07055 on November 18 between 8:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. On Tuesday morning, YWN published an extensive Psak Halacha written by one of the leading Poskim in the world, Hagaon HaRav Moshe Shternbuch to the Rosh Yeshiva of BMG, HaRav Malkiel Kotler. In the letter translated for YWN, Rav Shternbuch explains why it is a Halachic obligation to vaccinate. Additionally, the issue of vaccinations was brought up at the Agudah Convention at a panel with HaRav Elya Brudny and Harav Yosef Elefant. The video below is from that session. (Charles Gross – YWN)

Bnei Brak: 3-Week-Old Hospitalized With MEASLES; Got It From MOTHER Who Was NOT VACCINATED; More Cases in LAKEWOOD

November 26, 2018 9:15 pm 6 Comments

An infant has been hospitalized at Mayanei Hayeshua Medical Center in Bnei Brak, after the three-week-old baby was diagnosed with the measles. The hospital confirms that the three-week-old infant contracted the disease from his mother, who WAS NOT VACCINATED, and was diagnosed with measles. The mother likely caught the measles from ANOTHER family member who was ALSO not vaccinated. This is the youngest person to be hospitalized with the measles in Israel. Earlier this month, an 18-month-old girl was R”L killed by the measles in Meah Shearim. Meanwhile, the Ocean County Health Department has informed YWN that there are additional cases of measles in Lakewood. There are now 15 confirmed measles cases, and are an additional 21 potential cases under investigation. The Ocean County Health Department continues to support and highly encourage the exclusion of non-vaccinated children from schools, preschools and daycares in the outbreak area. These entities have the authority to make that decision when an outbreak has been declared by the New Jersey Department of Health. The age range so far for the current outbreak is 6 months to 27 years old. YWN posted on Motzei Shabbos that the New Jersey Department of Health is warning residents in Passaic County. This Passaic County resident could have exposed others to the infection while in Passaic County between November 17 and November 18. Anyone who visited the following locations may have been exposed to the measles: Passaic Chill Youth Drop In Center, 217 Brook Ave., Passaic, NJ on November 17 between 8:30 p.m. and midnight Junior’s Kosher Deli, 215 Main Ave., Passaic, NJ 07055 on November 18 between 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. Rite Aid, 78 Main Ave., Passaic, NJ 07055 on November 18 between 8:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Meanwhile, officials in Orange County say more people may have potentially been exposed to the measles. The Health Department says that anyone who used Motty’s Taxi Service on Nov. 14 at certain times may have been exposed. YWN was first to report that there was already one confirmed case of the measles in Orange County. A baby at a health facility in Kiryas Joel had showed symptoms. As of Friday, there are 77 confirmed cases of measles in Rockland County (Monsey, New Square, Spring Valley) plus seven suspected cases that the Rockland County Department of Health is keeping an eye on. That’s one more in two days. Manay Rabbonim around the globe have spoken out against the anti-vaxxers, with some Rabbonim saying that those who don’t vaccinate their children are murderers. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

MOTZEI SHABBOS UPDATE: More Measles in Lakewood; Alerts Issued For Passaic & Kiryas Joel

November 24, 2018 6:35 pm 5 Comments

The New Jersey Department of Health is warning residents of additional exposures associated with an outbreak of measles in Ocean County (Lakewood). A highly suspect case of measles associated with the Ocean County outbreak has potentially exposed individuals in Passaic County. This Passaic County resident could have exposed others to the infection while in Passaic County between November 17 and November 18. In addition to the highly suspect case, a 15th case of measles has been confirmed in Ocean County. There are no known public exposures related to this individual. Anyone who visited the following locations may have been exposed to the measles: Passaic Chill Youth Drop In Center, 217 Brook Ave., Passaic, NJ on November 17 between 8:30 p.m. and midnight Junior’s Kosher Deli, 215 Main Ave., Passaic, NJ 07055 on November 18 between 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. Rite Aid, 78 Main Ave., Passaic, NJ 07055 on November 18 between 8:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Meanwhile, officials in Orange County say more people may have potentially been exposed to the measles. The Health Department says that anyone who used Motty’s Taxi Service on Nov. 14 at certain times may have been exposed. YWN was first to report that there was already one confirmed case of the measles in Orange County. A baby at a health facility in Kiryas Joel had showed symptoms. As of Friday, there are 77 confirmed cases of measles in Rockland County (Monsey, New Square, Spring Valley) plus seven suspected cases that the Rockland County Department of Health is keeping an eye on. That’s one more in two days. Manay Rabbonim around the globe have spoken out against the anti-vaxxers, with some Rabbonim saying that those who don’t vaccinate their children are murderers. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Beit Shemesh Mayor Bloch: Don’t Come To Ceremony If You’re Unvaccinated Against Measles

November 22, 2018 11:30 pm 2 Comments

Newly elected Beit Shemesh Mayor Dr. Aliza Bloch announced ahead of the City Hall ceremony in which she assumed her post from outgoing mayor Rabbi Moshe Abutbul that anyone who has not been vaccinated against measles should not attend. She explained the reason is that children with the illness were in the room adjacent to where the ceremony was held. Many members of the press were among the visitors planning to attend the Thursday morning ceremony, but for some, the unvaccinated, plans changed. A notice was also circulated that anyone who was in City Hall on Tuesday, 12 Kislev, should get vaccinated if they are not already since persons with measles were in the building. It was added the alert was announced after consulting with Jerusalem District Health Ministry officials. As is the case in frum areas in the Greater NY region, the measles continues to spread in Israel and Bnei Brak’s Mayanei HaYeshua Hospital recently announced restrictions against children entering the hospital, referring to visitors, not patients. (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)

MEASLES HITS KIRYAS JOEL: The First Case Confirmed On Monday Night

November 20, 2018 12:30 pm 5 Comments

The first case of measles has been confirmed in Kiryas Joel. Sources have confirmed to YWN that the case was confirmed on Monday night. The child was examined by a doctor a few days ago, and authorities are attempting to reach those patients who were at the same doctor at that time. The Orange County health Department is aware of the case, and is working with local authorities to prevent further spread of the illness. MONSEY, NEW SQUARE, SPRING VALLEY: In nearby Rockland County, health officials say there is no change in the number of confirmed cases. There are still 75 cases within the county; however there are now 11 suspected cases that the Rockland County Department of Health is continuing to investigate. Along with Refuah Health Center in Spring Valley and private physicians, health-care providers have administered more than 6,100 MMR vaccines since the start of the outbreak. Rockland Health Commissioner Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert has also ordered that non-immunized children stay home from schools in New Square and from schools that have less than an 80 percent vaccination rate. This affects 34 private schools in the county. Health officials are doing daily checks of the schools to ensure compliance. Students will be allowed to return 21 days after the last case of measles is documented. LAKEWOOD, NJ: In Lakewood (Ocean County) NJ, there are 14 confirmed cases, and at least 13 suspected cases being investigated. The Ocean County Health Department tells YWN that they continue to support and highly encourage the exclusion of non-vaccinated children from schools, preschools and daycares in the outbreak area. These entities have the authority to make that decision when an outbreak has been declared by the New Jersey Department of Health. The age range so far for the current outbreak is 6 months to 27 years old. BROOKLYN, NY (BORO PARK, WILLIAMSBURG): In Brooklyn’s Orthodox Jewish community, health officials put the outbreak total at 24 since the first case in October. Manay Rabbonim around the globe have spoken out against the anti-vaxxers, with some Rabbonim saying that those who don’t vaccinate their children are murderers. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Is Litzman To Blame? Fewer Israelis Are Getting Flu Vaccines – Measles Continues To Spread

November 20, 2018 9:45 am 10 Comments

Last month, Israel’s Health Ministry declared a war on measles, increasing efforts to have as many children vaccinated as possible. Conversely, in contrast to the increase in measles immunizations there is a decrease in the number of people vaccinated for influenza. Although the disease is milder and generally less significant, in severe cases it can be fatal. Deputy Health Minister Yaakov Litzman supports legislation to ban children from daycare center and kindergartens if they are not immunized against measles. Despite his noble statements, some feel he must be held accountable for the situation and he should submit his resignation. According to Ministry of Health data, as of the beginning of November, only 10% of all Israeli citizens vaccinated against influenza, compared to 12.7% last year and 14% two years ago. According to the Ministry, at-risk populations (adults, infants, and those with weak immune systems) were vaccinated this year at lower rates: among adults aged 65 and over, 37.4% were vaccinated this year, while the rate of immunization last year was 45.1% and 48% two years ago. Among infants aged 6-23 months, this year 7.1% were vaccinated up to the beginning of November, compared with 10.1% in the corresponding period last year and 11.8% two years ago. Among toddlers aged two to five, the rate of immunization stands at 7.5% this year, compared with 11.5% last year and 13.9% two years ago. Even among chronically ill patients under the age of 65 who are at increased risk, there was a very significant decline this year, and the rate of immunization in this population stands at 18.4% as of the beginning of November, compared with 26% last year and 26.5% two years ago. Last year, 78 people died from flu in Israel and the previous year, 2016, there were 54 recorded deaths. The annual average since the beginning of the decade is 40 patients a year. The peak of the disease in Israel was in 2010, when the illness and its complications claimed 98 lives. (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)

MEASLES UPDATE MOTZEI SHABBOS: Lakewood, Brooklyn, Monsey, Chicago, Miami And Other Info

November 17, 2018 6:47 pm 18 Comments

LAKEWOOD, NJ: The Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) has released a statement that the number of confirmed cases of measles in Lakewood has gone up. There are now 14 confirmed cases of measles and an additional 10 under investigation. The OCHD says the number would be much higher were it not for the immunity provided by those who have received the MMR vaccine. The Ocean County Health Department has assisted with vaccination efforts through the deployment of 7 of its public health clinical nurses, in addition to responding with 4 health educators and numerous administrative personnel to assist in the measles response. The Ocean County Health Department has also issued a number of Health Officer Orders of Isolation and Health Officer Orders of Quarantine in an attempt to protect Public Health in the community. Approximately 90% of susceptible people will get measles if exposed to someone with the disease. Only those who have been vaccinated or who have been sickened with measles already are not susceptible. The measles virus also lingers in the air for up to 2 hours after the person with measles has left a room or building. Added to these frightening statistics is the data which suggests 30% of measles cases result in complications including pneumonia, corneal ulceration, brain scarring and even death with infants and pregnant women being particularly susceptible to complications. ROCKLAND COUNTY (MONSEY, NEW SQUARE, SPRING VALLEY): The Rockland County Health Department says that there are 74 confirmed cases. Along with Refuah Health Center in Spring Valley and private physicians, health-care providers have administered more than 6,100 MMR vaccines since the start of the outbreak. Rockland Health Commissioner Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert has also ordered that non-immunized children stay home from schools in New Square and from schools that have less than an 80 percent vaccination rate. This affects 34 private schools in the county. Health officials are doing daily checks of the schools to ensure compliance. Students will be allowed to return 21 days after the last case of measles is documented. BROOKLYN, NY (BORO PARK, WILLIAMSBURG): In Brooklyn’s Orthodox Jewish community, health officials put the outbreak total at 24 since the first case in October. CHICAGO: Important Measles Immunization update from the Vaad Hachinuch In line with the position of the Vaad Hachinuch that every child should be fully vaccinated, the school has been working diligently with families to convince them to get on an accepted vaccination schedule. Many of these families have already agreed to follow the school mandate. Only a small number of families have still chosen to use a religious exemption and not vaccinate their children. Over the last 24 hours it has become evident that the measles outbreak is imminent in our city with potential cases already reported. In light of this information, the Vaad Hachinuch has decided to put clause #2 of its original statement into effect as of this coming Sunday November 18th. We have therefore informed all parents of children that are not immunized for measles that they may not bring their children to school until further notice. The Vaad Hachinuch, in consultation with medical professionals, will decide if and when these children will be allowed back to school. We thank our parent body for their trust, patience and understanding during these trying times. We

MEASLES UPDATES THURSDAY NIGHT: Lakewood, Monsey, Brooklyn, Passaic, Detroit, Chicago, Cleveland & More Info

November 15, 2018 9:30 pm 1 Comment

The following are the latest updates compiled by YWN regarding the measles outbreak which is mostly affecting the Frum population, fueled by anti-vaccine propaganda spread by a small minority of the community. Not only is the anti-vaxxer cult responsible for this outbreak, but they are responsible for anti-Semitic propaganda that has begun spreading online – specifically targeting Jews because of failing to get vaccinated. Update below are by community. Any updates readers have, can be submitted to YWN. LAKEWOOD, NJ: The New Jersey Department of Health is warning residents that a twelfth case of measles – a highly contagious disease – has been confirmed in Ocean County. This individual could have exposed others to the infection while in Ocean County between November 6 and November 9. The Ocean County Health Department tells YWN that there are also an additional ELEVEN potential cases under investigation. YWN published a full list of where contagious persons visited. The list includes Yeshivos, Wedding Hall, DMV, Pizza Store, NPGS, Four Corners Bagel and many other locations. Read the full list here on the previous YWN article this morning. BROOKLYN (WILLIAMSBURG, BORO PARK): In Brooklyn’s Orthodox Jewish community, health officials put the outbreak total at 24 since the first case in October. ROCKLAND COUNTY (MONSEY, NEW SQUARE, SPRING VALLEY): Rockland County Health officials announced the number of confirmed cases of the measles rose to 68, with an additional 11 suspected cases. Meanwhile, Refuah Health Center, working in step with the Rockland County Department of Health, is pleased to announce a 15% increase in measles vaccinations among Refuah patients age 1-4. Since October 2, 2018 Refuah has provided close to 3,000 measles vaccinations and continues to act as a Point-of-Distribution for the vaccine. This signals significant progress in an area where some families opt to delay the traditional immunization schedule and a small pocket of anti-vaxxers peddle misinformation that fosters confusion and fear. These factors, combined with the highly contagious nature of the disease and the tight knit nature of the community, create an ideal environment for exposure and infection. Like other measles outbreaks reported in the United States within the last ten years, the majority of confirmed cases stem from individuals who are unvaccinated or under vaccinated, demonstrating how even a small number of unvaccinated individuals can have a significant impact on the overall health of a community. “There is a misperception that all families in this community don’t vaccinate their children,” said Dr. Rose Varon, head of pediatrics at Refuah and community provider for over 20 years. “The families I care for want to vaccinate,” said Varon. “We are encouraged by the community’s response,” said Tamir Katz, MD, Vice President of Medical and Dental Affairs at Refuah. “There are many mothers out there that have questions and are unfortunately bombarded by misleading and erroneous information. At Refuah we are here to provide patients with correct information to help them make the right choice which is always to vaccinate,” said Katz. Refuah continues to offer vaccinations at all Rockland County locations. Refuah encourages all children and individuals who are not immunized or those who are unsure of their vaccination history, to contact their primary care provider. An MMR vaccine provides the most effective protection against the measles and could provide protection against this exposure or future exposures.

Mayanei HaYeshua Hospital Announces New Restrictions Due To Measles

November 15, 2018 8:30 pm No Comments

The following message was released by Mayanei HaYeshua Hospital in Bnei Brak on Thursday, 7 Kislev in response to the continued spread of measles. In light of the outbreak of measles, with an emphasis on children, and out of concern for public safety, patients, newborns and staff, it was decided not to allow children to enter the hospital (Except for medical treatment). It should be emphasized that the directive also includes children who were vaccinated in the past. It should be emphasized that all the hospital departments without exception operate normally and without any change. (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)

MORE MEASLES IN LAKEWOOD: Contagious Person Visited Wedding Hall, Mesivta, BMG, DMV; 12 Cases Confirmed, Another 11 Suspected

November 15, 2018 12:28 pm 17 Comments

The New Jersey Department of Health is warning residents that a twelfth case of measles – a highly contagious disease – has been confirmed in Ocean County. This individual could have exposed others to the infection while in Ocean County between November 6 and November 9. The Ocean County Health Department tells YWN that there are also an additional ELEVEN potential cases under investigation. The Ocean County Health Department continues to support and highly encourage the exclusion of non-vaccinated children from schools, preschools and daycares in the outbreak area. These entities have the authority to make that decision when an outbreak has been declared by the New Jersey Department of Health. Anyone who visited the following locations may have been exposed to measles: Fountain Ballroom, 725 Vassar Ave, Lakewood, NJ 08701 October 30-October 31 between 6:00 p.m. and 1:30 a.m. Mesivta of Eatontown, 1300 New Hampshire Ave, Lakewood, NJ 08701 and 107 East Harvard St, Lakewood, NJ 08701 November 6-November 9 Bais Shalom AKA Alumni, 345 9th St, Lakewood, NJ 08701 November 6 between 1:15 and 6:45 p.m. Motor Vehicle Commission, 1861 Hooper Ave, Toms River, NJ 08753 (The Motor Vehicle Commission has chosen to close this location until Monday, Nov. 19. Other locations will be open for customers in the area). November 7 between 2:30 and 5:15 p.m. The Department is working in collaboration with the Ocean County Health Department to identify and notify people who might have been exposed during the time the individuals were infectious. YWN POLL: SHOULD YESHIVAS KEEP NON-VACCINATED CHILDREN OUT OF SCHOOL? YES NO The following is a comprehensive list of exposures identified to date related to this outbreak. Anyone who visited the following locations may have been exposed to measles: Schul Satmar, 405 Forest Avenue, Lakewood, NJ 08701 October 13- October 21 between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily October 28- November 1 between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. daily October 28- October 31 between 6:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. (morning of Nov. 1) November 1 between 6:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. Eat a Pita, 116 Clifton Ave, Lakewood, NJ 08701 October 15 between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. CHEMED Health Center, 1771 Madison Ave, Lakewood, NJ 08701 October 17 between 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. October 18 between 10:45 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. October 30 between 9:20 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. October 31 between 8:45 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. November 1 from 10:15 p.m. to close NPGS, 231 Main St, Lakewood, NJ 08701 October 25 between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. October 29 between 2:15 p.m. and 4:45 p.m. Pizza Plus, 241 4th St, Lakewood, NJ 08701 October 28 between 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Office of Dr. Eli Eilenberg, 150 James St, Lakewood, NJ 08701 October 31 between 11:15 a.m. and 2:45 p.m. November 1 between 12:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Four Corners Bagel & Café, 150 James St, Lakewood, NJ 08701 October 31 between 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. On Wednesday YWN published that the number of cases is likely higher. In just one case, YWN has been informed of 6 people in one family of anti-vaxxers that all have signs and symptoms of measles. The mother refuses to take her children to a doctor due to fears of the “doctor injecting poison into her children”. Despite threats of lawsuits by

MEASLES OUTBREAK UPDATES: Contagious Person INSIDE BMG; Schools Around Country Push Back; OU & RCA Statements

November 14, 2018 11:40 pm 28 Comments

THURSDAY MORNING UPDATE – MORE MEASLES IN LAKEWOOD: Contagious Person Visited Wedding Hall, Mesivta, BMG, DMV; 12 Cases Confirmed, Another 11 Suspected The measles outbreak continues to spread, with additional cases reported in many areas. As YWN reported on Tuesday, the outbreak is mostly affecting the Frum population, fueled by anti-vaccine propaganda spread by a small minority of the community. Not only is the anti-vaxxer cult responsible for this outbreak, but they are responsible for anti-Semitic propaganda that has begun spreading online – specifically targeting Jews because of failing to get vaccinated. Lakewood has at least 11 confirmed cases, but that number is likely higher. In just one case, YWN has been informed of 6 people in one family of anti-vaxxers that all have signs and symptoms of measles. The mother refuses to take her children to a doctor due to fears of the “doctor injecting poison into her children”. Despite threats of lawsuits by the anti-vaxxer cult, the The Ocean County Health Department continues to support and highly encourage the exclusion of non-vaccinated children from schools, preschools and daycares in the outbreak area. These entities have the authority to make that decision when an outbreak has been declared by the New Jersey Department of Health. Brooklyn has at least 24 confirmed cases, mostly in Boro Park and Williamsburg. There are unconfirmed reports of cases in Passaic, NJ. YWN has been unable to confirm them at the time of publishing. New York officials have confirmed 68 cases of measles in just Rockland County, making it the largest outbreak in the state in decades. The Journal News reports Rockland County’s outbreak originated from three groups of travelers from Israel, and it has affected residents in New Square, Monsey and Spring Valley. Rockland health officials say the affected patients are a mix of adults, teens and children. County officials are monitoring schools to ensure non-immunized children are not attending. LAKEWOOD’S BMG URGES EVERYONE TO VACCINATE AFTER CONTAGIOUS PERSON WAS INSIDE: YWN POLL: SHOULD YESHIVAS KEEP NON-VACCINATED CHILDREN OUT OF SCHOOL? YES NO STATEMENT FROM THE OU AND RCA: Orthodox Jewish parents, like responsible parents across the United States, overwhelmingly vaccinate their children against measles, mumps, rubella, polio and the other childhood diseases for which inoculations are now almost miraculously commonplace. As in many communities, a small minority of parents chooses not to do so. The ongoing measles outbreak demonstrates how this could bear very serious consequences, not only for their own children but others’ too, especially those medically unable to be vaccinated. The Orthodox Union (OU) and the Rabbinical Council of America (RCA) strongly urge all parents to vaccinate their healthy children on the timetable recommended by their pediatrician. Judaism places the highest value on preserving human life. It is well known that those facing even a potential life or death situation are instructed to set aside the Sabbath and other key tenets of halachic (Jewish law) observance until the emergency has passed. Prayers for good health and for the complete and perfect healing of the ill are an ages-old aspect of Jewish tradition. But prayers must go hand-in-hand with availing oneself of medical science, including vaccination. There are halachic obligations to care for one’s own health as well as to take measures to prevent harm and illness to others, and

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