New Jersey has dropped below the vaccination threshold needed to maintain herd immunity against measles, raising concerns among health officials as confirmed cases emerge in the state and in other parts of the nation.
The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) has reported three measles infections in 2025—one in an unvaccinated international traveler in Bergen County and two secondary cases linked to that exposure.
All three individuals diagnosed with the disease were unvaccinated, and health authorities are urging anyone who visited Englewood Hospital’s Emergency Department to monitor for symptoms through March 6.
Declining Vaccination Rates Raise Risks
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, more than 95% of New Jersey residents were vaccinated against measles—the level required to suppress outbreaks.
However, recent data shows statewide immunization rates have slipped to around 92%, with some areas, such as Ocean County, falling below 85%.
This decline has pushed the state below the herd immunity threshold, increasing the likelihood of further spread.
Nationally, measles cases are rising, with at least 93 confirmed infections across nine states in 2025, including three outbreaks.
A recent death in West Texas—an unvaccinated child—marks the first U.S. measles fatality this year. Studies indicate that 95% of cases occur in unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status.
Symptoms and Contagion Risks
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses, with a 90% infection rate among unvaccinated people exposed to it. Early symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, followed by a distinctive rash.
The disease can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and miscarriage in pregnant women.
An infected person can spread the virus for four days before and after the rash appears, making containment difficult.
About 1 in 5 measles patients require hospitalization, as many as three out of every 1,000 infected children die from complications.
Vaccination Remains the Best Defense
The CDC recommends two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine—typically given at 12-15 months and 4-6 years.
However, during outbreaks, the second dose can be administered as early as 28 days after the first. Infants as young as six months can receive an early dose if traveling internationally.
New Jersey Health Commissioner Dr. Kaitlan Baston emphasized that unvaccinated individuals exposed to measles can still get the MMR shot within 72 hours to reduce infection severity. Currently, 90.4% of New Jersey teens (13-17) are fully vaccinated, and colleges in the state maintain a 96.4% immunization rate for MMR and other required vaccines.
With spring and summer approaching, NJDOH advises travelers to ensure they are up to date on routine and destination-specific vaccines.
The CDC updates measles case counts weekly, and the American Academy of Pediatrics provides ongoing guidance.
While most cases resolve with rest and fever reducers, health officials urge parents to monitor for severe symptoms and consult doctors if concerns arise.
As vaccination rates lag, the risk of further outbreaks grows—putting unvaccinated children, immunocompromised individuals, and vulnerable communities at heightened risk.
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