NEW JERSEY— Health authorities are assessing potential public exposure after a traveler infected with measles passed through Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. The incident has raised concerns due to the airport’s role as a major gateway for passengers moving through the New York City region.
State officials confirmed that the traveler was present inside the airport for an extended duration on December 12, increasing the risk of virus transmission in high-traffic terminal areas. Newark Liberty International Airport serves millions of passengers annually and acts as a critical aviation hub for the northeastern United States.
Photo: jpellgen | Flickr
Newark Airport Measles Infection Spread
New Jersey’s Department of Health said the individual spent approximately 12 hours inside the airport, moving between Terminal B and Terminal C from early morning until evening.
Authorities confirmed that the infected traveler was not a New Jersey resident, while additional personal details were withheld to protect privacy.
The incident has prompted coordination between New Jersey and New York health agencies, given the volume of cross-border travel through the airport.
Liberty International handled nearly 49 million passengers in 2024, with international travelers accounting for roughly one-third of the total traffic.
Officials said at least two New York residents were known to have been exposed to the infected traveler during the airport visit. As of the latest update, New York health authorities reported no confirmed active measles cases linked to the exposure.
Health experts warned that measles is among the most contagious viral diseases known, with the ability to linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
This characteristic increases the exposure risk in enclosed aviation spaces such as terminals, security zones, and boarding areas.
Newark Airport; Photo- Wikipedia
Health Advisory Issued
People exposed to the virus may develop symptoms as late as January 2, according to health authorities. Early symptoms include a high fever, cough, and watery red eyes, followed by a distinctive rash that spreads from the face down the body.
Officials advised anyone who believes they may have been exposed to contact a healthcare provider or local health department before visiting a medical facility.
This step is critical to preventing potential spread within clinics or emergency rooms.
Public health agencies stressed that timely reporting and isolation are essential to limiting further transmission.
They also highlighted that while measles complications are rare, they can be severe, particularly for infants, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.
According to the Times Union, the New Jersey Department of Health urged travelers who were at the airport on December 12 to review their vaccination status.
Officials emphasized the importance of being fully immunized with the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine to reduce the likelihood of infection.
Newark Airport; Photo- Wikipedia
Bottom Line
The measles exposure at Newark Liberty International Airport highlights how quickly infectious diseases can intersect with global aviation networks.
Health officials continue monitoring potential cases while urging travelers to remain vigilant, verify vaccinations, and follow public health guidance to reduce transmission risks.
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