Southern Illinois Measles Outbreak Concludes: Health Officials Announce in 2025

CHICAGO (WLS) — Health officials in Illinois declared an end to an outbreak in the state.

There were a total of eight cases in southern Illinois and two unrelated cases in Cook County in April and May.

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Illinois Department of Public Health officials said Friday that the southern Illinois outbreak is deemed over, with no new cases since May 22.

“The conclusion of this outbreak, which resulted in only 8 cases and no severe illnesses in Illinois, highlights the intentional and effective efforts of our public health and medical experts,” stated IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “Public health is bolstered by the strength of partnership, and this measles response was a joint initiative involving IDPH, local health departments, and other committed community and healthcare allies. Vaccination is our most powerful method to prevent measles. I urge Illinois residents to ensure they and their family members are current on the measles/mumps/rubella vaccine as well as all other suitable immunizations.”

The CDC reports that nationwide, the count of measles cases has hit the highest point in over thirty years, with more than 1,200 confirmed infections across 38 states.

That’s a huge spike from the 285 cases the CDC recorded last year.

Health experts say the highly contagious disease caused by a virus can lead to hospitalization, pneumonia, long term complications and death.

RELATED: US having worst year for measles in more than 3 decades, CDC says

Here and across the country officials are urging people to get vaccinated.

“Achieving herd immunity, where the community is protected, requires 95 percent of individuals to be vaccinated,” explained Dr. Tara Narula, ABC News Chief Medical Correspondent. “For several years, vaccination rates for kindergarteners have been approximately 93 percent. Generally, for those who have been vaccinated, there is no need for an extra dose or booster. Individuals born before 1957 are also regarded as protected or immune, as they likely encountered the virus.”

Symptoms of measles include a fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit, cough, runny nose or red eyes and a rash that starts right around the hairline area and moves down the body lasting three days or more.