Measles Case Confirmed at Newark Airport During Holiday Travel
A case of measles, one of the most contagious diseases, was reported at Newark Liberty International Airport amid the bustling holiday travel season.
The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) announced that a passenger tested positive for measles after being in Terminals B and C on December 12.
“Symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose, watery red eyes, and a rash that usually appears three to five days after the onset of symptoms,” the statement noted.
The rash typically begins as flat red spots at the hairline and then spreads downward to various parts of the body.
Measles can be transmitted through airborne viruses, especially when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can linger in the air for up to two hours after someone exits the area.
Health officials are advising anyone who believes they may be infected to contact their healthcare provider before heading to any medical facility.
“The NJDOH is actively working with local health departments to trace contacts, alerting anyone who may have come into contact with the infected individual, and identifying any further exposure risks,” they added.
People who haven’t received full vaccinations or who have never had measles are particularly at risk, according to health officials.
As of late December, New Jersey has reported 11 confirmed measles cases this year.
Meanwhile, AAA estimates that over 8 million travelers are expected to take flights nationwide this holiday season.
Additionally, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health confirmed a measles case in a traveler arriving from Texas on Christmas Eve, who flew into Boston Logan International Airport.
By December 23, the CDC reported a total of 2,012 measles cases across the United States.
In a recent statement, Connecticut DPH Secretary Dr. Manisha Jutani emphasized that vaccination is the most effective way to protect against measles, noting an effectiveness rate of about 93% for one dose and about 97% for two doses.
