In a concerning development, the recent surge in measles cases in Chicago has now extended to the north suburbs, with a new case confirmed in Lake County on Saturday. The Lake County Health Department officials have verified that a resident has contracted measles, and they believe this case is linked to the ongoing outbreak in Chicago. This latest incident marks the 18th confirmed measles case in the Chicagoland region since the beginning of this year.

Authorities from the Lake County Health Department have quickly sprung into action, working diligently to identify and notify individuals who may have potentially been exposed to the contagious virus. They have provided a comprehensive list of locations and corresponding dates where exposure could have occurred. Specifically, those who were present at Advocate and suspect that they may have been exposed are urged to contact a healthcare provider or pharmacy on Saturday in order to receive the MMR vaccine, which can effectively prevent measles.

Health officials emphasize the importance of staying vigilant, particularly for infants under six months, unvaccinated individuals, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems who believe they may have been exposed. Such individuals are advised to contact their healthcare providers as they may still be eligible to receive immunoglobulin to mitigate the risk of contracting the disease.

To further aid in identifying potential cases, those who suspect exposure at any of the listed locations are encouraged to reach out to the Lake County Health Department's Communicable Disease team at (847) 377-8130. Dr. Sana Ahmed, the Medical Epidemiologist at the Lake County Health Department, underlines the significance of vaccination as the best defense against measles. She urges individuals to ensure that they are up to date with all their vaccines, and advises parents of children one year and older, who haven't yet received the MMR vaccine, to consult with their pediatric providers to catch up on the immunization schedule.

Collaboration between the Lake County Health Department and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) remains ongoing as investigations continue into potential exposures. This new measles case follows closely on the heels of two cases reported in the City of Chicago just a day prior. The city has now reported a total of 17 measles cases, predominantly affecting residents at the Pilsen new arrivals shelter on Halsted Street.

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus that spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the measles vaccine, utilized for over 50 years, is incredibly effective. Two doses provide approximately 97% protection if exposed to the virus, while a single dose is about 93% effective.

Since January 1, there have been 45 reported cases of measles across the United States, as disclosed by the CDC. In 2023, a total of 58 cases were documented within the country. While the vaccine has demonstrated high efficacy, the CDC acknowledges that about three out of 100 vaccinated individuals may still contract measles if exposed to the virus.

For more information on vaccine availability and scheduling, individuals are advised to contact Cook County Health at 833-308-1988, taking proactive steps to protect oneself and contribute to the containment of the measles outbreak.