By: Richard L. Smith
Health officials in New Jersey are urging residents to remain vigilant after a confirmed case of measles was reported in Bergen County.
According to information released by the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH), the infected individual had recently traveled internationally before developing symptoms. 
While the state is not currently experiencing a measles outbreak—defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as three or more related cases—officials are emphasizing the importance of awareness, particularly among parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers.
Residents are being encouraged to recognize symptoms and ensure they are up to date on the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which remains the most effective protection against the virus.
Potential Exposure and Symptoms
Those who visited Englewood Hospital’s Emergency Department at 350 Engle Street in Englewood, NJ, between 11:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. on February 9, 2025, between 11:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., may have been exposed to the virus.
Anyone who was present during this time is advised to contact their healthcare provider to assess their risk and monitor for symptoms, which can appear up to March 6, 2025.
Measles often begins with flu-like symptoms, including high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes.
A rash typically develops three to five days after symptoms start, appearing first on the face and then spreading to the rest of the body.
The illness can also lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia and encephalitis (brain swelling), and may pose severe risks for pregnant individuals, including miscarriage, premature birth, or low birth weight.
Because the virus is highly contagious, NJDOH advises that anyone experiencing symptoms call ahead before visiting a healthcare facility so medical staff can take proper precautions and prevent further exposure.
Efforts to Contain the Spread
Public health officials are actively conducting contact tracing to notify individuals who may have been exposed and to identify any further potential cases.
As of February 14, 2025, no additional cases linked to this incident have been reported.
Measles spreads easily through coughing and sneezing, and airborne particles can linger for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
People can also contract the virus through direct contact with saliva or mucus from an infected individual.
Individuals who have not received the full two-dose MMR vaccine or have never had measles before are at the highest risk of contracting the illness.
Protecting Against Measles
Health officials stress that the MMR vaccine is both safe and highly effective at preventing measles and its complications. 
NJDOH is particularly urging those who plan to travel internationally to ensure they are fully vaccinated, as measles remains common in many parts of the world.
While this single case does not constitute an outbreak, officials are reminding residents that early detection, vaccination, and proper medical precautions are essential to keeping the community safe.