New Jersey officials warned of “potential exposures” to measles after a new case was identified in a non-state resident who was infectious while attending a Shakira concert at MetLife Stadium last week.
The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) issued a statement on Tuesday telling residents “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.”
Officials warned that anyone who attended the concert Thursday “may have been exposed to measles” and could develop symptoms as late as June 6.
Symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose, watery red eyes and a rash that usually appears between three and five days after symptoms begin, according to the NJDOH, which detailed further indications of a measles-associated rash in its statement.
Individuals who are particularly at risk include those who have not been fully vaccinated or have not had measles in the past, according to the state health department.
As of Tuesday, no additional cases have been identified as associated with the concert, health officials said.
Officials said the MMR vaccine is “the most effective way” to protect against measles and is “highly effective” at preventing associated complications.
The department encouraged health care providers to “use every opportunity to assess for immunizations to ensure all patients are current on routine immunizations.”
Individuals who think they were exposed or suspect they might be infected are instructed to call a health care provider before seeking medical care to avoid infecting other patients and medical staff.
“Please do not visit a medical facility without calling ahead,” they wrote.
The U.S. is seeing a significant resurgence of measles, with more than 1,000 cases across 31 states. Many cases are concentrated in Texas, which accounts for more than 700 cases, which are predominantly identified in children and teens who are not vaccinated.
