Cook County warns of potential measles exposures at O'Hare, Niles and Mount Prospect

Key Points:

• The Cook County Department of Public Health has issued a warning about possible measles exposures in Chicago’s northwest suburbs, specifically at O’Hare Airport Terminal 5, Fresh Farms, and Marshalls on March 26, as well as Endeavor Health Immediate Care Center in Mount Prospect.
• Measles virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves, and transmission requires just 15 minutes of exposure; those most at risk include babies, young children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.
• Symptoms of measles include rash, high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, appearing up to 21 days after exposure; individuals with symptoms are advised to contact a healthcare provider before visiting a clinic to prevent further spread.
• Vaccinated individuals are generally protected, as two doses of the vaccine provide 97% protection, but unvaccinated people should consult healthcare providers about vaccination, which may prevent measles if given within 72 hours of exposure.
• Illinois experienced 14 measles cases in 2025 during a nationwide peak, a significant decrease from a 2024 outbreak with 64 confirmed cases in Chicago; Cook County Health clinics can be contacted at 312-864-1111 for vaccination appointments.