The Cook County Department of Public Health has confirmed the year’s first two cases of measles in the county. One case was identified as an adult who is a suburban Cook County resident while the second is an adult Chicago resident who traveled internationally through O’Hare Airport in early April.
The Cook County and Chicago Health Departments are working together to identify and notify people who may have been exposed. The Cook County Department of Public Health is investigating the Suburban Cook County case while the City of Chicago Department of Public Health is investigating the Chicago case.
The following locations are points of potential public exposure:
- Monday 4/21/2025: Fittingly Delicious, 3939 W. Irving Park Rd.
- Tuesday 04/22/2025: O’Hare Airport, 10 a. m.–8 p.m., especially Terminal 1
- Wednesday 04/23/2025: O’Hare Airport, 10 a.m.–8 p.m., especially Terminal 1
- Friday 04/25/2025: Aldi: 7235 39th St, Lyons, IL 6053, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
- Sunday 04/27/2025 Shell: 3901 S. Harlem Ave., Stickney, IL 60402, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
- Monday 04/28/2025 Mobil: 2945 S. Harlem Ave, Berwyn, IL 60402, 10:20am-1 p.m.
For Individuals Who May Have Been Exposed
Individuals who may have been exposed should notify their healthcare provider if they are unsure about prior vaccination. The healthcare provider will determine the need for testing if symptoms develop.
If an exposed individual develops symptoms, they should
notify their healthcare provider or a healthcare facility before going to a medical office or emergency department for evaluation to ensure that special arrangements can be made to prevent other patients and medical staff from possible exposure.
Most individuals are vaccinated against measles routinely in childhood and are not at high risk. The two doses of MMR vaccine are 97% effective against measles and generally provide lifelong immunity. Generally,
- The first dose should be given between 12-15 months of age .
- The second between the ages of 4-6 years old.
About Measles
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads easily through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Measles is so contagious that if one person has it, 90 percent of the people close to that person who are not immune will also become infected. Complications from measles can lead to pneumonia, seizures, hearing loss, life-long brain damage, and death.
The virus can linger in a room for up to two hours and can be especially dangerous for babies and young children, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems.
Measles Symptoms
Symptoms appear up to 21 days following exposure. Symptoms of measles include rash, high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. The rash usually begins on the face and spreads. A person is generally contagious four days before and four days after the onset of a rash.
Where to Get Vaccinated
To make an appointment for measles vaccination at a
Cook County Community Health Center in Chicago or suburban Cook County, call 833.308.1988. Unvaccinated individuals who do not have a healthcare provider are encouraged to schedule a vaccination appointment.
Consider Your Age & Timing
If you were vaccinated before 1968, check with your healthcare provider about a revaccination. A blood test can confirm if you still have immunity. Talk to your healthcare provider if you’re unsure.
Assess Exposure and Risk
If you got just one dose, have a weakened immune system, or have been exposed to an outbreak, consult a healthcare provider about immunization.
Traveling Out of the Country
Individuals who are traveling out of the country, including children over the age of six months, should talk to their healthcare provider about whether an additional dose of MMR vaccine is recommended before travel.
People who are frequently around international travelers, such as individuals who work at airports or taxi and rideshare drivers, should also be sure to double check their vaccination status, as their risk of exposure to measles is heightened.
Learn more about Measles and download fact sheets in multiple languages visit:
Measles - Cook County Department of Public Health or learn more at the
CDC.