A Chicago resident who traveled through O’Hare Airport in early April has been diagnosed with measles, according to public health officials. The individual, an adult with one prior dose of the measles vaccine, developed a rash on April 25 and is currently isolated at home.
The CDC notes that breakthrough infections, where someone gets sick despite being vaccinated, are rare but possible. Vaccinated people are less likely to spread the disease and typically experience milder illness. However, the exact reason for breakthrough infections is not yet understood.
As measles cases rise in the US, Chicago has reported its first case of the year. The city’s Department of Public Health and Cook County Department of Public Health urge residents to receive two doses of the vaccine at least two weeks before travel. A second measles case was also reported in Illinois on Wednesday, involving an adult suburban resident who visited a local hospital for medical care.
To prevent further spread, health officials are urging the public to ensure they are up-to-date on their vaccinations. Individuals who may have been exposed and are unsure about their vaccination status should notify their healthcare provider for further instructions.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/US/chicago-resident-traveled-ohare-airport-diagnosed-measles/story?id=121339048