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Measles

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Data Last Updated: 6/13/2025

2025 Measles Cases in Illinois

10

Case Counts by Year
Exposure Locations

Current Situation in Illinois

  • All Illinoisans should check whether they have received all necessary measles vaccinations and take steps to get vaccinated if not.
  • Clinicians are advised to be on high alert for measles cases in their community and to immediately contact their local health department with any suspicion of measles; do NOT wait for laboratory confirmation before contacting public health.
  • Clinicians and health care facilities should ensure patients and staff are fully immunized and/or have evidence of presumptive immunity to measles.

Measles is a serious, highly contagious disease caused by a virus. The virus is spread easily through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or by direct contact with infected nose or throat secretions.

Symptoms of measles include:

  • Fever of 101F (38.3C) or higher
  • Cough, coryza (runny nose), or conjunctivitis (red eyes)
  • A generalized rash that starts on the head around the hairline and moves down the body, lasting three days or more

The best way to prevent measles is through the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella.

Measles Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Frequently Asked Questions about Measles.
Measles Information for Clinicians

Clinicians are strongly advised to be on high alert for measles cases in their communities and to take steps now to ensure that their facilities and staff are prepared for potential future cases.
Measles Information for Parents/Guardians

Measles is a serious, highly contagious illness that can have severe consequences. Learn more about how to protect your children.
Measles Information for Schools

Schools play an important role in measles vaccination coverage. Learn more about how schools can maximize protection for their students.
Measles Information for Health Care Facilities

Measles is highly contagious, and transmission can occur in health care facilities without a plan to stop its spread. Learn more about how to prepare your facility ahead of time for potential measles cases and to mitigate transmission if measles is already present in your community.
Measles Information for Travelers

Most measles cases in the United States result from unvaccinated international travelers. If you plan to travel internationally or to a domestic area where there is a measles outbreak, learn more about how you can protect your health.

Resources