The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) has issued a warning about potential measles exposures after a non-resident with the virus visited a medical facility in New Brunswick while infectious. The department is advising residents, especially parents, guardians, health care providers, and caregivers, to be aware of measles symptoms and ensure they are up to date on their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations.
Measles typically presents with high fever, cough, runny nose, watery red eyes, and a rash that appears several days after initial symptoms. The rash starts on the face at the hairline and spreads downward. Measles can cause complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis and may lead to miscarriage or premature birth in pregnant individuals.
NJDOH stated that anyone who was at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital’s Pediatric Emergency Department in New Brunswick between 11:15 PM on February 6 and 4:45 AM on February 7 may have been exposed. The department urges those who suspect exposure or illness to call their local health department or healthcare provider before visiting any medical office or emergency room to prevent further spread.
Contact tracing is ongoing in collaboration with local health officials to notify potentially exposed individuals and identify other possible exposures. People exposed could develop symptoms as late as February 28.
As of February 10, no additional related cases have been identified in New Jersey. NJDOH will post updates about new exposures on its website (nj.gov/health/measles).
There have been no confirmed measles cases among New Jersey residents so far this year; however, there were 11 cases reported in the state during 2025. Nationally, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), measles cases remain elevated with 2,276 confirmed in the United States for 2025 and another 733 reported this year.
Measles spreads easily through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing and can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves. It also spreads via contact with mucus or saliva from an infected individual. Those most at risk are people who have not been fully vaccinated or previously had measles.
The MMR vaccine is administered in two doses and is considered safe and effective against measles as well as its complications. NJDOH recommends all residents keep up with routine immunizations including MMR shots. Travelers should ensure they are fully vaccinated prior to international trips; infants aged six to eleven months should receive one dose before travel followed by two more doses after turning one year old.
Healthcare providers are being asked by NJDOH to assess immunization status at every opportunity for both patients and staff. Providers referring suspected cases must call ahead so appropriate precautions can be taken at receiving facilities.
“Anyone who suspects an exposure or illness should call their local health department or a health care provider BEFORE going to any medical office or emergency department. Special arrangements can be made for evaluation while also protecting other patients and medical staff from possible infection. Please do not visit a medical facility without calling ahead,” NJDOH said in its statement.
