Health officials warn of possible measles exposure at RWJ Hospital
The patient who visited the New Brunswick hospital was not from New Jersey.
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New Jersey health officials have issued an alert after an out-of-state resident infected with measles who visited the Pediatric Emergency Department at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick late last week.
According to a statement from the New Jersey Department of Health, the individual was at the emergency department from about 11:15 p.m. On Feb. 6 until 4:45 a.m. Feb. 7. The NJDOH says anyone who visited the location during those specific times may have been exposed to measles and should monitor themselves and family members for symptoms.
"Individuals – especially parents, guardians, health care providers, and caregivers – are urged to be aware of the symptoms of this highly contagious virus and to ensure they are up to date with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) shots," The NJDOH said in a statement.
Those who were exposed could develop symptoms as late as Feb. 28, NJDOH officials said. So far, no additional cases have been identified and as of Feb. 10, no confirmed measles cases have been reported in New Jersey residents in 2026.
Symptoms of measles include a cough, fever, runny nose, and watery eyes as well as a rash that usually appears 3 to 5 days after the symptoms begin. The rash can start as red spots on the face that spread to other parts of the body. Measles can also lead to complications such as pneumonia as well as dangerous issues for those who are pregnant.
Anyone who believes they may have been exposed to measles or is experiencing symptoms should contact their local healthcare provider or medical provider before going to a medical facility, since special accommodations must be made to protect medical staff and other patients in those locations.
