NJ health officials confirm measles case in Bergen County, warn of possible exposures
BERGEN COUNTY, N.J. — State health officials are urging residents to check their vaccination status after confirming a new measles case in Bergen County, the New Jersey Department of Health said Wednesday.
The case is not linked to previously reported cases, and New Jersey is not experiencing an outbreak, which federal officials define as three or more related cases. This marks the state’s 10th confirmed measles case of 2025.
Individuals may have been exposed if they visited certain Hackensack locations during the specified times:
- Prospect Plaza, 385 Prospect Ave., Hackensack — Aug. 25 between 2:30 p.m. and 5:45 p.m. and Aug. 29 between 8:45 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
- Pediatric Emergency Department, Hackensack University Medical Center, 30 Prospect Ave., Hackensack — Aug. 26 between 10:45 a.m. and 5:45 p.m.
- Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital, Hackensack University Medical Center, 30 Prospect Ave., Hackensack — Aug. 26 at 3:30 p.m. through Aug. 27 at 8:30 p.m.
Potentially exposed people could develop symptoms as late as Sept. 20. Symptoms typically include fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes and a rash that spreads from the face downward. The illness can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling and pregnancy complications.
Anyone who suspects exposure should contact a health care provider or local health department before visiting a medical facility, to prevent further spread.
Since the start of the year, New Jersey has reported 10 measles cases, compared with seven in 2024. Nationally, 1,431 cases across 42 jurisdictions have been reported in 2025 — the highest level since 1992, eight years before the disease was declared eliminated in the U.S.
The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, given in two doses, remains the safest and most effective protection, according to health officials. NJDOH is encouraging all residents, especially those planning international travel, to stay up to date on vaccinations.
