the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Newark NJ, Nearly 500 cases of measles reported across 20 states, per CDC. As of Friday, the measles outbreak in Texas had infected 400 people, while four other states are also experiencing outbreaks. The outbreaks—defined as three or more cases—include New Mexico, Kansas, Ohio, and Oklahoma. In total, the US has 483 confirmed measles cases, with 157 cases in children under the age of 5 and 204 in those between the ages of 5 and 19 .
New Jersey health officials are warning Amtrak riders of a potential measles exposure after an infected passenger traveled through six New Jersey stations last week. Those who were on Amtrak Northeast Regional Train 175 on March 19 between 7:30 p.m. and 1:30 a.m. should seek medical advice and monitor for symptoms.
Train Route and Potential Exposure
The train, which traveled from New York to Washington, D.C., stopped at the following New Jersey stations:
✅ Newark Penn Station
✅ Newark Liberty International Airport
✅ Metropark (Edison)
✅ New Brunswick
✅ Princeton Junction
✅ Trenton
Although officials have not disclosed where the infected rider boarded, they confirmed the individual exited in Washington, D.C., and was not a New Jersey resident. Due to measles’ long incubation period, exposed individuals could develop symptoms as late as April 10.
Measles Symptoms & Risks
Measles is highly contagious and can spread through coughing and sneezing. Symptoms usually appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and may include:
🔴 High fever
🔴 Cough & runny nose
🔴 Watery, red eyes
🔴 Rash that spreads over the body
According to the CDC, measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia and neurological issues, especially in young children and unvaccinated individuals.
Additional Exposure at New Jersey Hospital
Officials are also investigating another potential exposure at Capital Health Medical Center in Pennington, NJ. Anyone who visited the emergency department on March 22 between 5:15 p.m. and 1:30 a.m. should consult a doctor. Symptoms could develop as late as April 12.
Measles Cases Rising Nationwide
The U.S. is seeing a surge in measles cases, with 483 confirmed cases across 20 states in 2024, per the CDC. Two deaths have been reported, though none in New Jersey.
What You Should Do
⚠️ If you were on the train or at Capital Health Medical Center during the exposure times:
✔️ Contact your doctor for guidance
✔️ Watch for symptoms until the recommended date
✔️ Check your vaccination status
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