Measles Resurgence: NJ Reports Highest Case Numbers in 25 Years Amid Public Health Alert

• NJ Health Officials Issue Measles Alert After Spike in Cases

• 25-Year High: Measles Returns to NJ With Growing Exposure Sites

• What to Know About the Measles Surge in New Jersey

Cases of measles around the nation are on the rise as they hit a 25-year high. Measles outbreaks in America, as we approach the midway point of 2025, have nearly doubled from the numbers in 2024.

New Jersey Measles Cases in 2025

Here in the Garden State, we are one of 39 places throughout the nation that have reported at least one confirmed measles case in 2025. According to Patch, "The New Jersey Department of Health added another case to this list on Tuesday, confirming that a resident of Hudson County also has come down with the illness." In addition, they added that "Last week, a brand new case was also confirmed in Ocean County. There were also three other individuals diagnosed in February who were all part of a household outbreak in Bergen County."

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Measles outbreaks are defined as "three or more related cases." This year's number, "27" of outbreaks, is up from "16" in 2024.

What is "Measles"

Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. In simple terms, it's an illness that usually starts with symptoms like a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A few days later, a red rash breaks out, usually starting on the face and spreading down the body. It's spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and it can live in the air for hours.

Measles can be serious, especially for young children, and can lead to complications like pneumonia, brain swelling, or even death in severe cases. The good news is it’s preventable with a vaccine.

"According to the New Jersey Department of Health, the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine is safe and the most effective way to protect against measles, mumps, and rubella."

Read More: New Jersey’s Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Selected for Immigrant Detention

For us here in New Jersey there are several areas close to us that have reported cases this year including:

• Maryland
• Pennsylvania
• New York State
• New York City