Introduction to Measles Cases in Cook County
Health officials have reported the first two confirmed measles cases of the year in Cook County. One person with the disease is an adult from Chicago who traveled internationally through O’Hare Airport in early April, according to the Chicago Department of Public Health. A rash started April 25 and they have been isolated at home since being diagnosed. They also had received one dose of the two-dose MMR vaccine, which covers measles, mumps and rubella.
Details of the Second Case
The other case was detected in a suburban Cook County adult who went to a hospital Monday for medical care and was isolated, health officials said. Their vaccination status was unknown. The two cases come one week after the Illinois Department of Public Health reported the state’s first confirmed measles case at a clinic in far southern Illinois.
Locations of Possible Exposure
The Chicago and Cook County health departments are working to identify and notify people who may have been exposed to the two most recent cases. Measles is a highly contagious disease — one person can infect up to 18 individuals. In contrast, the flu’s infection rate is about one to two people. Chicago health officials have identified the following locations as possible exposure points:
- April 21: Chicago Public Library, Independence Branch, 4024 N. Elston Ave.
- April 21: Fittingly Delicious, 3939 W. Irving Park Road
- April 22: O’Hare Airport, 10 a.m.–8 p.m., especially Terminal 1
- April 23: O’Hare Airport, 10 a.m.–8 p.m., especially Terminal 1
- April 25: Aldi, 7235 39th St., Lyons, 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
- April 27: Shell, 3901 S. Harlem Ave., 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
- Monday: Mobil, 2945 S. Harlem Ave., Berwyn, 10:20 a.m.–1 p.m.
National Context and Vaccination Importance
Anyone who is unsure of their vaccination status and may have been exposed is urged to notify their health care provider. Across the country, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have reported 884 confirmed measles cases and three deaths from the virus in 2025. “We are experiencing a resurgence of measles in the United States, despite the fact that two doses of the MMR vaccine can prevent it,” said Dr. Kiran Joshi, interim chief operating officer of Cook County Department of Public Health. “Misinformation has contributed to declining vaccination rates and fueled recent outbreaks. The MMR vaccine has been in use for over 50 years, is highly effective, and has protected millions of lives.”
Conclusion
The emergence of measles cases in Cook County serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination. Despite the availability of a highly effective vaccine, misinformation and declining vaccination rates have contributed to the resurgence of measles in the United States. It is crucial for individuals to ensure they are up to date with their vaccinations and to seek medical advice if they suspect they have been exposed to measles.
FAQs
- Q: What are the symptoms of measles?
A: Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash that spreads over the body. - Q: How contagious is measles?
A: Measles is highly contagious, with one person potentially infecting up to 18 others. - Q: What is the MMR vaccine?
A: The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella and is administered in two doses. - Q: What should I do if I think I have been exposed to measles?
A: If you are unsure of your vaccination status and may have been exposed, notify your healthcare provider. - Q: How many measles cases have been reported in the US in 2025?
A: As of the latest reports, there have been 884 confirmed cases and three deaths from measles in 2025.
