New Jersey health officials are warning travelers about possible measles exposure at Newark Liberty International Airport.
The state Health Department said an infected person passed through Terminal B on Oct. 19 between 2:15 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. while contagious.
Anyone who may have been exposed should contact their local health department before seeking medical care to prevent further spread, officials said. People who catch the virus could develop symptoms through Nov. 9.
No related measles cases have been reported in New Jersey so far. The state has confirmed 10 measles cases this year, up from seven in 2024.
Across the United States, more than 1,600 measles cases have been confirmed in 42 states and jurisdictions, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About 92 percent of those infected were unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status. 12 percent were hospitalized, and three people have died.
Measles spreads through airborne transmission, remaining in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area. The virus can cause serious complications, including pneumonia and brain inflammation.
Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that spreads from the face to the rest of the body. Pregnant people face additional risks such as miscarriage, premature birth, or low birth weight.
People who are unvaccinated or have never had measles face the highest risk.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.