NEWARK, New Jersey (WABC) -- A passenger at Newark Airport may have exposed people to measles, prompting health officials to issue a public health alert. The New Jersey Health Department announced that an individual diagnosed with measles passed through the airport on Friday, raising concerns about potential exposure to travelers and airport staff. Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can lead to severe complications, making it crucial for health authorities to act swiftly to inform the public and mitigate further spread of the disease.
The health department has identified specific times and areas within Newark Airport where the infected individual was present, advising anyone who was in these locations during the time of exposure to monitor for symptoms of measles. Symptoms typically include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and a distinctive red rash that usually appears three to five days after the initial symptoms. Those who may have been exposed are urged to contact their healthcare provider, especially if they are experiencing any symptoms, and to ensure their vaccinations are up to date.
Measles is particularly concerning due to its ease of transmission, as it can spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain viable in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area, making crowded places like airports particularly high-risk environments. Public health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination in preventing outbreaks, as measles can be effectively controlled through widespread immunization. In light of this incident, health officials are working to ensure that the community is informed and that those who have not been vaccinated are encouraged to do so.
As health officials continue to investigate the situation, they are also reminding the public about the importance of herd immunity in preventing outbreaks. The recommended vaccination schedule includes two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is typically administered in childhood. However, there are still populations that may be under-vaccinated, including some adults who may have missed their vaccinations or those who are immunocompromised. In response to this potential exposure at Newark Airport, the health department is also considering initiatives to increase vaccination awareness and accessibility in the community, aiming to bolster public health and prevent further cases of measles in New Jersey.
Newark Airport passenger may have exposed others to measles, New Jersey Health Department says - ABC7 New York
