Measles alert: Infected person visits Newark airport twice
Measles alert issued after an infected individual visited Newark Airport and other NJ spots. Health officials urge monitoring for symptoms and early action!
A person infected with measles visited several public locations in North Jersey, including Newark Airport, the Marriott Park Ridge, and a Starbucks. The individual also stopped by Sean O'Casey's Irish Pub and the Bergen New Bridge Medical Center. Health authorities issued a warning about potential exposure in these places, as measles is highly contagious. The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours, making public areas particularly risky.
Measles exposure alert: Infected individual visited multiple locations in North Jersey, including Newark airport
Measles symptoms usually include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that appears a few days after infection. The disease is easily spread in crowded environments, and health experts warn about the risks in places like airports and hotels. Due to its contagious nature, measles can infect individuals long after an infected person has left. Health officials urge anyone who suspects exposure to contact their healthcare provider promptly.
This year, measles cases in the U.S. have surpassed those of 2024, with outbreaks in numerous states, including New Jersey. Experts fear that the virus is particularly dangerous in communities with low vaccination rates, where it is more likely to spread. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has noted the rise in cases, fueling concerns about further outbreaks. With the virus's ability to spread quickly, maintaining high vaccination coverage remains critical.
Measles exposure: Health officials urge caution and call ahead to avoid spreading the virus in medical settings
The virus can remain airborne for hours after an infected person leaves, significantly increasing the risk of exposure in public spaces. Health officials recommend that individuals who suspect they’ve been exposed avoid going directly to a healthcare facility. Instead, they should call ahead to avoid spreading the virus to others. This guidance helps contain the spread of measles in medical settings, where vulnerable populations may be present.
The New Jersey Department of Health provided specific dates and locations of exposure for individuals who may have been infected. Anyone who visited the listed places during the times mentioned could be at risk and should monitor for symptoms. The department emphasized that the symptoms of measles can appear as late as April 17, so residents are urged to stay vigilant and take precautions.