Cook County health officials have issued a warning about potential measles exposure at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital last week. An unvaccinated child with measles walked through the hospital lobby and later passed Suite 1010 in the surgical area on Monday. The virus can survive in the air for up to two hours after someone infected leaves. Anyone in the hospital’s lobby, Suite 1010, or outpatient testing areas between 4:30 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. that day may have been exposed.
If you think you were in contact with the virus and aren’t sure about your vaccination status, it’s important to check with your healthcare provider. Symptoms can take up to 21 days to show up and may include a rash, high fever, cough, and runny nose. If symptoms develop, call your doctor before visiting to make sure they can prepare for your arrival to avoid spreading the virus further.
Measles is highly contagious. A person can spread the virus starting four days before, and up to four days after, a rash appears. Complications from measles can be serious, leading to pneumonia, seizures, or even death.
For those unvaccinated and without a healthcare provider, the Cook County Health Department can help. You can reach them at 312-864-1111 for vaccination appointments or visit a federally-qualified health center.
Additionally, the Chicago Department of Public Health offers free MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccinations at various clinics throughout the city. Walk-ins are welcome, but it’s best to register in advance for quicker service. You can sign up at getvaxchi.chicago.gov or by calling a clinic.
It’s worth noting that measles cases have seen a rise again across various regions. According to the CDC, the United States reported over 200 measles cases in 2023, a significant increase from previous years. This highlights the importance of vaccination and public awareness. Keeping immunizations up to date helps protect not just individuals but also the community at large. In a time of rampant misinformation about vaccines, the role of healthcare providers is crucial in reassuring families about the safety and necessity of vaccinations.
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Cook County, Measles
