A patient visiting a medical center in Mercer County, New Jersey, has been linked to an outbreak of measles, the state Health Department announced on Friday. The individual visited Capital Health Medical Center from March 22 to March 23 and may have exposed others during their stay.
Those who were potentially exposed include people who are not fully vaccinated or have never had measles before. Symptoms may appear as late as April 12, health officials warned.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that can spread easily through talking, coughing, or sneezing. The virus causes symptoms such as high fever, runny nose, and red rash, which can lead to serious complications like pneumonia and encephalitis.
The announcement comes amid a global rise in measles cases and despite the US being declared free from the disease in 2000. However, vaccination coverage is now below the target of 95%, with some communities struggling to meet it.
Residents are urged to stay up-to-date on vaccinations, including the MMR vaccine, which is mandatory for school-age children in New Jersey unless a medical or religious waiver is granted.
Source: https://www.nj.com/healthfit/2025/03/person-with-measles-could-have-exposed-others-at-nj-medical-center.html