Cook County, Illinois Reports Second Measles Case in Suburban Area This Year
Cook County, Illinois, confirms the second measles case in suburban areas this year, highlighting the importance of vaccination to prevent outbreaks. The recent case involves a 4-year-old unvaccinated child believed to have contracted the virus during international travel.
Health officials in Cook County, Illinois, have confirmed the second case of measles in the suburban region for 2025. The patient is a 4-year-old child who has not received the measles vaccination. Authorities believe the child contracted the highly contagious virus during international travel.
The public health department has identified potential exposure sites, notably Terminal 5 at O'Hare International Airport, where the child was present between 7:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on September 11. Individuals who might have been at the airport during that time are advised to monitor for symptoms and consult healthcare providers about their vaccination status.
Measles can spread rapidly through the air via coughs, sneezes, or breathing near an infected person. Symptoms, which may develop up to 21 days post-exposure, include rashes, high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes.
Dr. Simbo Ige, the commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health, emphasized the importance of vaccination, stating, "Measles is extremely contagious but preventable. This case underlines the community-wide significance of immunization."
The CDC notes that two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective, and one dose offers about 93% protection. Children typically receive their first dose at 12 to 15 months and the second between ages 4 to 6. The first confirmed case of the year in suburban Cook County was in an adult in late April.
Amid ongoing debates regarding vaccines, especially following changes made by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., health authorities continue to advocate for vaccination. Nationwide, 2025 has seen 1,454 confirmed measles cases and three deaths, marking the highest number since the disease was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000.
Health officials recommend those vaccinated before 1968 or with uncertain vaccination histories to consult their healthcare providers for possible revaccination, especially if they have been exposed during outbreaks.
This recent case serves as a stark reminder of the critical role of vaccination in preventing outbreaks of this easily transmitted disease.
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