The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) has issued a warning about potential measles exposure for individuals who were at Newark Liberty International Airport on December 19, 2025. The alert follows the identification of a measles case in a person not residing in New Jersey who passed through the airport while infectious.
According to NJDOH, people who were present in Terminal B between 7:00 AM and Terminal C until 7:00 PM may have been exposed to the virus. Information regarding the individual’s movements within these terminals during that period is currently unavailable, but updates will be provided on the department’s website.
Measles symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, watery red eyes, and a rash that usually appears three to five days after initial symptoms. The rash typically starts on the face at the hairline and spreads downward. Complications can be severe and may include pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), miscarriage or premature birth in pregnant individuals.
The department advises anyone suspecting exposure or experiencing symptoms to contact their local health department or healthcare provider before visiting any medical facility. This allows for arrangements that protect other patients and staff from possible infection.
NJDOH stated it is working with local officials on contact tracing efforts and notifying those potentially exposed. Individuals exposed could develop symptoms as late as January 2, 2026.
As of December 26, no additional related cases have been reported in New Jersey. If further exposures are identified, information will be posted at nj.gov/health/measles.
Since early 2025, there have been eleven confirmed measles cases in New Jersey; seven cases were reported statewide in 2024. Nationally, measles incidence has reached its highest level since 1992 with over two thousand cases across forty-four jurisdictions this year according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Measles is highly contagious and spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes; the virus can remain active in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
Those most at risk are unvaccinated individuals or those without prior infection. The MMR vaccine—administered in two doses—is considered safe and effective against measles as well as mumps and rubella. NJDOH urges all residents to stay current with vaccinations including MMR shots; infants aged six to eleven months traveling internationally should receive one dose before travel followed by two more doses after their first birthday.
Healthcare providers are encouraged by NJDOH “to use every opportunity to assess for immunizations to ensure all patients and staff are current on routine immunizations.” Providers referring suspected cases must call ahead so facilities can make appropriate arrangements.
