By: Richard L. Smith
New Jersey health officials are alerting residents after confirming the state’s first case of Measles in 2026, prompting warnings about potential exposure in North Jersey.
According to information released by the New Jersey Department of Health, the case involves a Hudson County resident who contracted the virus following recent international travel.
Officials emphasized that, at this time, New Jersey is not experiencing an outbreak, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines as three or more related cases.
Health officials are urging residents—especially parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers—to ensure vaccinations are up to date, particularly the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
The department also stressed that infants ages 6 to 11 months traveling internationally should receive an early dose of the vaccine, followed by the standard two doses after their first birthday.
Authorities have identified two locations where potential exposure may have occurred:
Location: Newark Liberty International Airport, Terminal B
Date & Time: April 14, 2026, between 5:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.
Location: Hackensack University Medical Center, Pediatric Emergency Department
Date & Time: April 17, 2026, 11:15 p.m. through April 18, 2026, 3:15 a.m.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes, and a rash that typically begins on the face before spreading to the rest of the body. In severe cases, the illness can lead to complications such as pneumonia or brain swelling.
Officials advise anyone who may have been exposed or is experiencing symptoms to contact their healthcare provider or local health department before visiting any medical facility.
Calling ahead allows providers to take precautions to prevent further spread of the virus.
Health officials are continuing contact tracing efforts and monitoring for additional cases. Individuals potentially exposed could develop symptoms as late as May 11, 2026.
As of April 22, no additional cases linked to this incident have been identified.
The Department of Health said updates will be provided as more information becomes available.