New Jersey health officials are warning of a potential measles exposure at a recent Shakira concert, after a new case was identified from an infectious attendee.
“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 shots,” read the statement.
Officials warn that anyone who may have been exposed from 7:30 p.m. until 1 a.m. could develop symptoms as late as June 6 if infected.
Visible measles symptoms, such as a rash that spreads across the body, usually appear three to five days after initial indications, which include a high fever, cough, runny nose, or watery red eyes.
“The virus spreads easily through the air when someone coughs or sneezes and can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the area,” the statement continued.
“People can also get sick when they come in contact with mucus or saliva from an infected person.”
Further, the agency recommends that anyone who suspects they may have been exposed should first contact a health care provider before entering any medical facility or emergency department for treatment.
At the time of the release, the NJDOH noted, no new cases had been identified from the sold-out concert.
According to health officials, at-risk individuals include those who have not been fully vaccinated or have not had measles in the past. Officials recommend that residents stay up to date on routine vaccinations.
Among the 30 states with confirmed cases, Texas, New Mexico, Indiana, Michigan, Montana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Kansas were listed as having active outbreaks.
In the U.S. this year, there have been three confirmed deaths associated with measles, with the CDC noting the disease can cause severe health complications and can be especially dangerous in babies and young children.
