A second child living in a Pilsen migrant shelter was diagnosed with measles, this time attending a CPS school, marking the third case of measles in Chicago. The child is currently in the hospital in good condition, while investigations are underway to identify potential contacts. In response, the CDC team will be sent to Chicago to assist with the situation.
Residents who were recently vaccinated are being urged to quarantine at the shelter for 21 days to prevent further spread of the highly contagious virus. CPS has notified staff and families of the affected school to exercise caution. To address the issue, an alderman hosted a meeting with residents to vaccinate remaining unvaccinated individuals at the shelter.
Health officials have expressed concerns over a potential measles outbreak due to a lack of safety protocols and vaccine hesitancy. Measles cases have been on the rise in the first two months of the year, attributed to vaccine hesitancy. The CDC recommends that children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine at specific ages, and adults are also urged to consider vaccination.
The situation in Chicago highlights the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of preventable diseases like measles. With the support of health officials and community leaders, efforts are being made to contain the outbreak and protect the health of residents in the affected areas.
