DCHD: First measles case confirmed in DuPage County
DUPAGE COUNTY — The DuPage County Department of Health (DCHD) confirmed a DuPage County resident has contracted measles Saturday, the county’s first measles case since 2009.
DCHD officials said the case does not appear to be linked to new arrival shelters in Chicago and the source of infection is unknown at this time.
The person who was diagnosed with measles has received outpatient medical care, and DCHD said they are “working diligently with public health partners to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed to the virus.”
No exposure locations have been identified in DuPage County, but multiple exposure locations have been identified in Chicago from April 2-10.
To find measles exposure locations in Chicago, visit chicago.gov/measles.
DCHD officials said individuals who are not vaccinated against measles, or who are not sure about their vaccination status, and were at any of the locations on the dates and times listed, may have been exposed to measles and should visit the website above for further guidance.
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DCHD officials also recommend those who have been vaccinated against measles should monitor for symptoms for 21 days. They said those who are exposed but are vaccinated are likely safe, but should call their healthcare provider if symptoms develop during that time.
Measles is a serious respiratory infection that causes a rash and high fever and is capable of leading to pneumonia and other complications. Measles symptoms typically include fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, and a characteristic rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
“With an increasing number of measles cases being identified, being up to date with measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccinations is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones,” said Adam Forker, executive director at the DCHD. “Measles is highly contagious but thankfully, the MMR vaccine is effective at preventing measles and remains by far the best protection against measles for people of all ages.”
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