How To Protect Yourself From Measles In Southern Illinois

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) stresses vaccinations as it releases news about a dangerous but preventable virus that has made its way into the state.

First Illinois Patient Confirmed

According to the IDPH report, the first case of measles was confirmed in far southern Illinois on Wednesday, April 23.

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This diagnosis was verified through lab tests, and while this is currently the only known case in the state of Illinois, health officials are working closely with local health departments to investigate potential exposure sites.

At the time this story was published, the IDPH reported no evidence of an outbreak in the state, and the overall risk to the general public remains low.

Precautions Taken, Health Officials on Alert

The patient who tested positive for measles was an adult who sought care at a local clinic, and health officials are now identifying individuals who may have been exposed to the virus.

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IDPH is urging anyone who may have been exposed and is not vaccinated to monitor for symptoms such as rash, high fever, cough, and red eyes. Anyone who has symptoms should contact healthcare providers before visiting medical facilities to avoid further exposure.

Rising National Measles Cases Underscore Need for Vaccinations

The new Illinois case comes during a national spike in measles, with over 900 confirmed cases reported in more than 25 jurisdictions, double the 2024 total, according to the report.

An outbreak in Texas and New Mexico alone has seen over 680 cases and three deaths. Illinois previously reported 67 cases during a 2024 outbreak in Chicago.

Public Health Emphasizes Immunization and Preparedness

IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra urged Illinois residents to check their immunization status, emphasizing that "two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97 percent effective in preventing measles."

A new IDPH Measles Outbreak Simulator Dashboard now allows parents and schools to assess local vaccination coverage. Officials continue to encourage routine childhood vaccination to prevent further spread.