Measles Exposure Alert After NJ Transit Passenger Tests Positive
A measles exposure warning has been issued in New Jersey after a transit passenger tested positive. Authorities advise travelers on specific routes between August 13-15 to be vigilant for symptoms and ensure their vaccinations are current to prevent outbreaks.
Health authorities in New Jersey have issued an exposure warning following a confirmatory case of measles linked to a passenger on NJ Transit. The infected individual, a resident of Hudson County, was infected after close contact with another confirmed case involving a non-resident traveling through the state. The person traveled on several public transportation routes between August 13 and 15, raising concerns about potential exposure among fellow commuters.
The affected routes include the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail, specifically the 8th Street station in Bayonne, and the PATH Newark Line at Exchange Place Station in Jersey City. The travel times of concern are from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. and 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. on those days. Authorities warn that anyone who was on these routes or stations during these times may have been exposed to the highly contagious measles virus.
Symptoms of measles typically begin with high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. These are often followed by a rash that appears within three to five days. Exposed individuals could develop symptoms as late as September 11, as the incubation period can extend up to 21 days.
Given the severity and contagiousness of measles, officials strongly recommend residents ensure their vaccinations are up to date. The MMR vaccine, administered in two doses at least 28 days apart, is 97% effective at preventing measles. Despite the disease being declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, recent outbreaks have seen a rise in cases, with 1,375 confirmed infections reported across 41 states so far in 2025— the highest in over three decades.
In New Jersey, seven cases have been confirmed, although there is currently no evidence of ongoing community spread. NYC and other areas in New York State have reported cases as well. A recent study in the Journal of the American Medical Association highlighted that vaccination rates among children in the U.S. have declined post-pandemic, increasing vulnerability to outbreaks.
Health officials urge everyone to verify their immunization status and consult healthcare providers if they have concerns about exposure or symptoms. Staying current with vaccinations is vital to controlling the spread of this preventable but highly infectious disease.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-nj-transit-rider-positive-measles.html
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