Measles exposure alert issued after Shakira concert at MetLife stadium

Thousands of attendees at Shakira’s Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran concert at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey may have been exposed to measles, according to a health alert issued by the New Jersey Department of Health.

The alert, released on May 21, identified a non-resident who attended the concert on May 15 while infected. Officials said exposed individuals could develop symptoms until June 6. It is not known whether the individual was vaccinated.

The concert, which featured appearances from artists including Ozuna, attracted fans from across the US and internationally. It was held during a transit strike, with many relying on chartered coaches to reach the venue.

Measles is highly contagious and spreads through airborne droplets. The disease can remain in the air for up to two hours and infects nine in ten unvaccinated people exposed. It begins with flu-like symptoms and is followed by a rash starting at the hairline.

Vaccination rates across the US have declined in recent years, raising concerns about the return of once-controlled diseases. In contrast, New York City reported a slight increase in MMR coverage among kindergarteners.

The MetLife concert was the second stop on Shakira’s US tour, which includes 14 additional cities.