New Jersey Issues Measles Warning After Shakira Concert Exposure

The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) has issued a warning about potential measles exposure at Shakira's May 15 concert at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, following confirmation that an infectious non-New Jersey resident attended the event. Officials urge all attendees, especially parents and healthcare providers, to verify their MMR vaccination status and watch for symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, watery red eyes, and a rash appearing three to five days after symptom onset, with a potential incubation period extending until June 6. Despite no additional cases being reported as of May 20, concerns remain due to the highly contagious nature of measles and its resurgence in the U.S., with over 1,000 cases confirmed in 31 states this year. Concertgoers are advised to call healthcare providers before visiting medical facilities to prevent further spread. The warning highlights the importance of vaccination amid ongoing public health challenges and recent scrutiny of vaccine policy leadership. Shakira's concert drew a large crowd, increasing the risk of virus transmission in a densely packed setting.