Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Warns of Measles Exposure

New Jersey health officials report a measles case at the hospital's pediatric emergency department.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) has reported a case of measles at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick. The infected individual visited the hospital's pediatric emergency department late last Friday through early Saturday morning, potentially exposing others to the highly contagious disease.

Why it matters

Measles is a serious and highly contagious viral illness that can lead to severe complications like pneumonia and encephalitis. This incident highlights the importance of vaccination, as those who are unvaccinated or have never had measles are at the highest risk of contracting the disease.

The details

According to the NJDOH press release, the infected individual is not a New Jersey resident. Anyone who visited the hospital's pediatric emergency department during the specified time frame may have been exposed to the virus, which can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area. The state is working with local health officials to identify additional cases and notify those who may have been exposed.

  • The infected individual visited the hospital's pediatric emergency department from late Friday, February 7 to early Saturday, February 8, 2026.
  • Individuals exposed to the virus could potentially develop symptoms as late as February 28, 2026.

The players

New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH)

The state health department that reported the measles case and is working with local officials to identify additional cases and notify those who may have been exposed.

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital

The hospital in New Brunswick, New Jersey where the measles case was reported in the pediatric emergency department.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The NJDOH is working with the New Brunswick and Middlesex County health officials to identify additional cases and contact those who may have been exposed. They recommend that individuals stay up to date on all vaccinations, including the Measles, Mumps and Rubella vaccine, which is the safest route of prevention for the disease.

The takeaway

This measles case at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital underscores the importance of vaccination, as those who are unvaccinated or have never had measles are at the highest risk of contracting the highly contagious and potentially severe viral illness. Health officials are urging the community to ensure they are fully vaccinated against measles to protect themselves and others.