Warning! Measles exposure reported at Shakira concert at MetLife Stadium
New Jersey health officials urge Shakira's concertgoers to monitor for symptoms after a measles case was confirmed at the May 15 show.
The New Jersey Department of Health has issued an urgent measles exposure warning for attendees of Shakira’s concert held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford on May 15. A person infected with the highly contagious virus attended the concert while potentially contagious, prompting concern among health officials.
Authorities emphasized that individuals who were at the concert and suspect possible exposure or symptoms of measles should contact their healthcare provider before visiting any clinic or emergency room. Symptoms may appear as late as June 6, and health officials stress the importance of avoiding medical facilities without calling ahead to reduce further risk of transmission.
Who is at risk and what to watch for
The measles virus poses the greatest risk to individuals who are unvaccinated or have never had the illness. Health officials are urging anyone who has not received the full two-dose MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine to speak with a healthcare provider. The MMR vaccine is the most effective protection against infection and related complications.
Symptoms of measles include high fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, and a distinctive rash that begins on the face and spreads across the body. In severe cases, measles can lead to pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), miscarriage in pregnant individuals, or complications in newborns.
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Precautionary measures and vaccine recommendations
The NJDOH is advising residents to stay current on all recommended vaccinations, particularly the MMR shot. Children traveling internationally should be fully vaccinated, with infants aged 6 to 11 months receiving one dose before travel and completing their vaccine schedule after their first birthday.
Measles spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing and can linger in the air for up to two hours. It can also be contracted through contact with mucus or saliva from an infected person. Officials recommend continued vigilance and awareness to prevent further infections.
