Measles Alert: Traveler Exposes Others at Newark Airport Amid Rising US Outbreak Concerns

Representative image.

Measles, a highly infectious viral illness, has become a significant public health issue in the United States over recent months. The New Jersey health department recently issued a public health advisory after confirming that a traveller infected with measles passed through Newark Liberty International Airport on October 19.

The infected individual was present in Terminal B between 2:15 pm and 5:30 pm local time. Health officials noted that this person, who does not reside in New Jersey, potentially exposed numerous other travelers to this highly transmissible virus.

Measles is an extremely contagious disease characterized by a widespread body rash. According to Mayo Clinic, transmission occurs through airborne respiratory droplets from infected individuals.

The health department warned, "Measles can cause serious complications including pneumonia and encephalitis (brain swelling), and may lead to pregnancy complications such as miscarriage, premature delivery, or low birth weight in babies."

Typical measles symptoms develop 10-14 days after exposure, including high fever, persistent cough, nasal discharge, reddened watery eyes, and a characteristic full-body rash.

"While most individuals recover from measles within approximately 10 days without long-term medical complications, the disease can become serious or potentially fatal, particularly for children under 5 years of age and people with severely compromised immune systems," according to Mayo Clinic guidance.

Individuals potentially exposed during the airport incident may not exhibit symptoms until November 9, as the virus typically incubates for 11-12 days.

The New Jersey Department of Health has advised all who were present at the airport during the specified timeframe to carefully monitor themselves for developing symptoms.

Health authorities have also emphasized the importance of ensuring up-to-date measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination status for all residents.

This incident occurs amid a troubling increase in measles infections across the country. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported 1,648 confirmed measles cases across 42 states this year, representing a substantial increase compared to previous years.