Urgent Health Alert: Measles Exposure Confirmed on NJ Transit & PATH Trains!

New Jersey health officials have issued a critical public health alert, warning thousands of commuters about potential exposure to measles on several NJ Transit and PATH train lines. This urgent notice follows a confirmed case of measles in an individual who traveled extensively on public transportation during their infectious period, putting countless passengers at risk.

The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) is urging anyone who traveled on specific routes and dates to be vigilant for symptoms and to contact their healthcare provider immediately.

Measles is a highly contagious airborne disease that can lead to serious complications, especially in unvaccinated individuals, infants, and those with compromised immune systems.

Key Exposure Windows:

Authorities have identified the following routes and times as potential exposure sites:

• NJ Transit Northeast Corridor Line: August 18th to August 20th, daily between 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
• PATH Journal Square to 33rd Street (via Hoboken) Line: August 18th to August 20th, daily between 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM and 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
• Specific Light Rail Connections: Transfers made at Newark Penn Station and Hoboken Terminal during these periods.

Passengers who were on these lines during the specified times should carefully monitor themselves for symptoms for 21 days from their last potential exposure date.

This 21-day period is the maximum incubation time for the measles virus.

Understanding Measles and Its Symptoms:

Measles begins with a fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A few days later, a characteristic red, blotchy rash appears, typically starting on the face and spreading downwards to the rest of the body.

Measles is incredibly contagious, spreading through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can live for up to two hours in an airspace where an infected person coughed or sneezed.

Complications can include pneumonia, ear infections, diarrhea, and in rare but severe cases, encephalitis (brain swelling), which can lead to permanent brain damage or even death.

The best protection against measles is vaccination with the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine.

What to Do If You Were Potentially Exposed:

1. Check Your Vaccination Status: Ensure you and your family are up-to-date on your MMR vaccinations. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles.
2. Monitor for Symptoms: Be alert for fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and rash over the next three weeks.
3. Contact Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY: If you develop symptoms, call your healthcare provider before visiting their office or an emergency room.

   This is crucial to prevent potentially exposing others in waiting rooms. Inform them of your potential measles exposure.

4. Limit Contact: If you suspect you have measles, stay home from work, school, and avoid public places to prevent further spread.

The NJDOH emphasizes that this warning is a precautionary measure to safeguard public health and encourages everyone, especially those who use public transit, to be aware and proactive.

Vaccination remains the most effective tool in preventing the spread of measles and protecting vulnerable populations. For more information, please visit the NJDOH website or consult your healthcare provider.