New Jersey reports first case of measles this year, warns of public exposure

The New Jersey Department of Health is investigating the states first confirmed case of measles of 2026.

Health officials said a Hudson County resident who was traveling overseas contracted the virus and are warning anyone who went through Terminal B at Newark Liberty International Airport on April 14, or visited the Pediatric Emergency Department, Hackensack University Medical Center on April 17, you may have been exposed.

Anyone who suspects that they have been exposed should call their local health department or a health care provider before going to any medical office or emergency department, according to health officials.

Potentially exposed individuals, if infected, could develop symptoms as late as May 11, 2026.

As of April 22, health officials share that no additional associated cases in New Jersey have been identified. 

How Measles Spreads

The New Jersey Department of Health shared that the virus spreads easily through the air when someone coughs or sneezes and can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the area.

People can also get sick when they come in contact with mucus or saliva from an infected person. Individuals at risk include those who have not been fully vaccinated or have not had measles in the past.

According to the CDC, as of April 16, 2026, a total of 1,748 confirmed measles cases were reported in the United States this year.

How You Can Prevent Measles

The best way to prevent measles is by getting the MMR vaccine, which is administered in two doses.

Health officials said it is the most effective way to protect against measles, mumps and rubella. The vaccine is also effective at preventing complications caused by theses highly contagious diseases.