Measles Scare Spreads After Infected Traveler Passes Through Newark Airport

Health officials are warning of potential measles exposure after an infected traveler passed through Newark Liberty International Airport. The incident has sparked concern as the U.S. sees a rise in measles cases linked to international travel and declining vaccination rates. Authorities are urging anyone who was at the airport during the exposure window to monitor for symptoms and verify their immunization status.

Health officials are urging anyone who passed through Newark Liberty International Airport’s Terminal B on October 19 between 2:15 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to monitor for symptoms of measles after an infected traveler passed through the terminal. The traveler, who is not a New Jersey resident, may have exposed others to the highly contagious virus, according to the New Jersey Department of Health.

Measles, a highly infectious viral disease, has re-emerged as a growing health concern in the United States over the past several months. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

“Measles can cause serious complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis (brain swelling), and in pregnant individuals, it can lead to miscarriage, premature birth, or low birth weight,” the health department said in a statement.

Symptoms typically appear 10 to 14 days after exposure and may include high fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, and a full-body rash. Most people recover within about 10 days, but the illness can be severe or even fatal, particularly in young children and those with weakened immune systems.

Officials warned that anyone exposed at the airport may not show symptoms until November 9, as the virus can incubate for up to two weeks. The state health department is urging residents to ensure they are up to date on the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which provides effective protection against the disease.

This alert comes amid a nationwide uptick in measles infections. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 1,600 confirmed cases have been reported across 42 states this year a significant increase compared to recent years.

Public health experts say the incident underscores the continued importance of vaccination and vigilance, especially as international travel increases.

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Source: NDTV‍