A measles outbreak originating in Chicago has now spread to Lake County, Illinois, with the Health Department confirming a case in the area. This comes as the Chicago Department of Public Health announced two additional measles cases in the city, bringing the total to 17 confirmed cases.
Most of the cases in Chicago are concentrated among migrants living in a shelter in Pilsen, with 11 cases reported in children under the age of 5. The outbreak has sparked concerns about the vulnerability of young children who may not have received the necessary vaccinations.
Meanwhile, in East Chicago, Indiana, the local Health Department is investigating a possible mass exposure of measles at a church in the area. This incident is reportedly unrelated to the cases in Chicago, and the department is working to contain the spread of the virus.
The infected individual who visited East Chicago is not a resident of Indiana, highlighting the ease with which measles can travel across regions. In response to the growing number of cases, health officials are urging eligible individuals to get vaccinated to protect themselves and prevent further outbreaks.
The situation serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of contagious diseases like measles. Health departments in both Illinois and Indiana are actively monitoring the situation and taking necessary precautions to contain the outbreak. Stay tuned to Bio Prep Watch for further updates on the measles outbreak in the Midwest.