Outcry over ‘inhumane’ conditions inside Pilsen shelter after child diagnosed with measles
CHICAGO — Chicago’s Department of Public Health says it’s working to stop the spread of measles in the city following confirmation of two cases since 2019, one of which was a child living at the area’s largest migrant shelter.
The measles case at the Pilsen shelter is the latest incident to spark concerns about migrants’ well-being. Maria Perez, who volunteers with the nonprofit Southwest Collective, lamented the shelter conditions and lack of space.
“They’re constantly asking for cough medicine (and) fever reducer,” she said.
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WGN News cameras rolled as Perez helped deliver diapers, Pedialyte, hygiene kits and more to migrants.
“I come Monday through Friday,” she said. “I’m here for four hours a day distributing supplies.”
Diaz and others point to videos that show what critics say are grossly overcrowded conditions at the shelter on the 2200 block of South Halsted.
“They’re all sleeping together,” she said. “They’re not sleeping in separate rooms.”
Dr. Jennifer Grant, Endeavor Health System’s Medical Director of Infection Prevention and Control, said the measles virus can stay up in the air for two hours after an infected person leaves the area.
“Measles is one of the most contagious viruses that we see,” she said. “Up to 90% of people around an infected person who is not immune will become infected.”
One asylum seeker, who did not wish to be identified by WGN News, said he is deeply worried about a potential spread of measles.
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“It’s very crowded,” said the 34-year-old Venezuelan father of two. “There’s too many people in there. The conditions inside of the shelter are inhumane.”
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