17 Measles Cases Confirmed in Chicago

The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) is responding to the first measles cases in the city since 2019 and a recent outbreak.

As of March 24, 2024, CDPH has identified 17 confirmed measles cases in Chicago, most of which have been found in the Pilsen new arrivals shelter on Halsted Street.

Of the 17 confirmed cases, 11 are in children below the age of 5.

CDPH has established vaccine operations at new arrival shelters and the landing zone. Since the measles outbreak began, about 4,000 people have received a measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.

MMR vaccination remains the best and most effective way to prevent the spread of measles, and all Chicagoans should review their immunization records or contact their healthcare provider to ensure they are up to date on the vaccine.

MMR vaccinations are generally offered at health clinics and community pharmacies in Illinois. 

During 2024, a total of 64 measles cases were reported by 17 jurisdictions: Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York City, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington.

In 2023, the U.S. CDC reported 58 measles cases in 20 jurisdictions.