In a concerning development, city health officials in Chicago have announced a second case of measles at the largest migrant shelter in Pilsen. The child has been hospitalized but remains in good condition, according to a statement from the city's Department of Public Health.

This news comes after the confirmation of the first measles case at the same shelter on Friday. However, that child has since recovered and is no longer infectious. Additionally, an unrelated case was reported outside of the shelter last Thursday, marking the first instance of measles in Chicago since 2019.

The Pilsen shelter, located in a large warehouse, has been under scrutiny following the tragic death of a 5-year-old resident from sepsis. Currently, there are more than 11,500 migrants residing in 23 shelters across Chicago, operated by the city and state authorities.

Since August 2022, over 36,800 migrants have arrived in Chicago after being bused from the southern border by Texas Governor Greg Abbott. In response to the measles cases, officials are conducting thorough investigations to identify and notify individuals who may have come into contact with the infected children. These individuals will be urged to receive a vaccination.

As a precautionary measure, residents of the Pilsen shelter who have not been vaccinated for measles or have only recently received the vaccine will be required to quarantine for 21 days, as stated by the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH). On the other hand, previously vaccinated residents will be allowed to leave the facility and return as needed.

Measles, a highly contagious respiratory infection characterized by a rash and high fever, can be particularly severe for young children. It can also lead to complications like pneumonia. Fortunately, thanks to high vaccination coverage from childhood, measles cases have been extremely rare in Chicago.

"The majority of Chicagoans are vaccinated against measles and therefore are not at high risk, but we are strongly urging those who aren't vaccinated to do so as soon as possible, including new arrivals and all Chicagoans," said CDPH Commissioner Olusimbo Ige in a statement.

Despite the low incidence of measles in the city, officials anticipate further spread of the disease due to its high contagion rate. Some residents have reportedly left the shelter despite the quarantine measures imposed by the city.

It's important to note that the recent cases of measles in Chicago are unrelated to an outbreak that occurred in Indiana last month, which affected only one person, according to officials.

Given the increasing reports of measles both across the country and globally, largely due to lower vaccination rates, health authorities are reminding everyone of the importance of vaccination to prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease.