By: Richard L. Smith
State health officials are urging New Jersey residents to be on alert following confirmation of a measles case involving a Hudson County resident.
According to the New Jersey Department of Health, the individual’s illness is not linked to the Ocean County case reported earlier this month, and there is no active measles outbreak at this time.
Federal health officials define an outbreak as three or more related cases.
While New Jersey is not currently experiencing a widespread threat, state health authorities are stressing the importance of being vigilant about symptoms and ensuring immunizations are up to date—particularly the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that begins with symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes.
A rash typically develops a few days later, starting on the face and progressing downward to the rest of the body. Complications can be serious, including pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis), and—in pregnant individuals—miscarriage or premature birth.
As part of their public health response, the New Jersey Department of Health is working with local health departments to conduct contact tracing and notify individuals who may have been exposed.
Officials say that anyone who visited affected locations during specific time windows may be at risk and should monitor for symptoms until August 2, 2025.
The department emphasizes that those who believe they may have been exposed or are showing symptoms should call a healthcare provider before visiting any clinic or emergency room to avoid exposing others.
As of 2025, five measles cases have been reported statewide.
That figure is slightly lower than last year’s total of seven, according to the NJDOH.
Health officials continue to urge the public to stay informed, check their immunization status, and speak with a healthcare professional if there are any concerns.