NEW JERSEY — New Jersey health officials have confirmed the state’s first measles case of 2026 and are urging residents to ensure they are up to date on vaccinations.
The New Jersey Department of Health said the case involves a Hudson County resident who developed measles after recent international travel. Officials emphasized that the state is not currently experiencing an outbreak, which is defined as three or more related cases.
Health officials are advising residents — particularly parents, caregivers and health care providers — to be aware of measles symptoms and confirm they are vaccinated with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
The department said potential exposure may have occurred at Newark Liberty International Airport’s Terminal B on April 14 between 5:30 a.m. and 9 a.m., and at the pediatric emergency department at Hackensack University Medical Center from late April 17 into early April 18.
Anyone who may have been exposed is advised to contact a health care provider or local health department before visiting a medical facility to avoid spreading the virus.
Symptoms of measles include high fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes and a rash that typically appears several days after initial symptoms. The illness can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia and brain swelling.
Officials said individuals exposed to the virus could develop symptoms as late as May 11. As of April 22, no additional cases tied to the incident had been identified.
The department is working with local health agencies to conduct contact tracing and notify those who may have been exposed.
Measles spreads easily through the air and can linger for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area. People who are not fully vaccinated are at the highest risk.
Health officials stressed that the MMR vaccine, given in two doses, is the most effective protection against measles and its complications.
Nationally, measles cases are rising. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 1,748 confirmed cases in the United States as of April 16.
State officials are urging residents to stay current on vaccinations and for health care providers to review immunization records and take precautions when evaluating potential measles cases.
