A potential measles exposure has been identified at a recent Shakira concert held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Health officials are urging attendees to be vigilant for symptoms of the highly contagious virus.
The New Jersey Department of Health announced that an individual who attended the concert on May 15, from 7:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. on May 16, was confirmed to be infected with measles. This individual was visiting from out of state.
While no cases directly linked to the concert have been reported as of May 20, health officials warn that symptoms could manifest up to June 6. Attendees are advised to monitor themselves closely.
Measles is an airborne virus known for its rapid spread, particularly among those who are not vaccinated. It can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves a space. Anyone who suspects they might have measles should immediately contact their healthcare provider, who can arrange for safe testing and treatment to minimize further transmission.
This potential exposure coincides with a significant increase in measles cases across the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 1,000 cases have been confirmed nationwide in 2025 alone, signaling a potential resurgence of the disease.
The current measles outbreak is on track to become the largest in over two decades, surpassing the 1,274 cases recorded in 2019.
New Jersey has seen a limited number of measles cases this year, with only three reported in a single household in Bergen County. Separately, an individual with measles was also present at Newark Liberty International Airport's Terminal B on May 12.
The CDC data reveals that a significant majority (96%) of measles cases in 2025 involve individuals who were either unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status. Children under the age of five and those between five and nineteen years are disproportionately affected. Hospitalizations and, tragically, even deaths, have been reported.
The most effective defense against measles remains vaccination. The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine provides robust protection. Two doses offer 97% immunity. The CDC recommends that children receive their first dose between 12 and 15 months of age and a second dose between 4 and 6 years old.
Adults born before 1957 are generally considered immune due to widespread exposure during childhood.
Measles symptoms usually appear within two weeks of infection and include high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a characteristic rash. Complications can be severe, ranging from ear infections and pneumonia to brain swelling and even death.
Public health experts are urging increased vaccination rates to prevent a widespread resurgence of measles in the United States. The CDC estimates that one in five unvaccinated individuals who contract measles will require hospitalization.