In a concerning development, the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) has reported a second confirmed case of measles at a shelter for migrants in Pilsen. This announcement comes amidst a recent global surge in measles cases due to lower vaccination coverage.

Measles, a highly contagious respiratory infection, presents symptoms such as a rash and high fever and can result in severe complications including pneumonia. Both cases at the shelter involve young children, with the first child having recovered and the second currently hospitalized in good condition.

To combat the spread of the highly infectious virus, the CDPH is emphasizing the importance of vaccination. The department is collaborating with its partners at the migrant shelter, including Cook County Health, RUSH University Medical Center, University of Illinois - Chicago, and a team from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to screen residents for symptoms and administer vaccinations.

Dr. Olsimbo Ige, the commissioner of the CDPH, has warned that further cases are expected due to the virus's contagious nature. Individuals who have been exposed to someone with measles are advised to quarantine and seek medical assistance.

Notably, residents at the Pilsen shelter who have been previously vaccinated are permitted to come and go freely. However, those who have not been vaccinated or were recently vaccinated are required to undergo a mandatory 21-day quarantine.

Despite this guidance, some unvaccinated and newly vaccinated residents have left the shelter, raising concerns among health authorities. Dr. Ige urges the unvaccinated to prioritize getting vaccinated and to immediately quarantine if they have had contact with anyone diagnosed with measles.

To support those under quarantine at the shelter, the Department of Family and Support Services has secured additional meal services. For more information about measles virus and vaccinations, the CDPH provides online resources.

This recent development follows the first confirmed case of measles in Chicago since 2019, underscoring the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to safeguard public health.

The CDPH and its partnering organizations continue to work diligently to contain the spread of measles and protect the health and well-being of the migrant shelter residents as well as the broader community.